December 22nd, 2024

Oxfam calls for stronger action following UN Security Council's ceasefire resolution in Gaza

Oxfam stressed the urgency of adopting a permanent ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the provision of unrestricted aid into Gaza

Pedro Comissário Afonso (centre right at table), Permanent Representative of Mozambique to the United Nations, introduces the draft resolution during the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. (Photo: UN)
Pedro Comissário Afonso (centre right at table), Permanent Representative of Mozambique to the United Nations, introduces the draft resolution during the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. (Photo: UN)

In the wake of the UN Security Council’s recent call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, Oxfam has expressed its support but emphasised that the measures fall significantly short of what is needed to ensure lasting peace.

The resolution's reception: Brenda Mofya, Oxfam’s UN Representative and Head of the New York Office, welcomed the Security Council's resolution for a ceasefire, seeing it as a crucial respite for Palestinians in Gaza from ongoing Israeli violence. Despite this, Mofya criticised the resolution for not establishing a permanent ceasefire and lamented the delayed action after the loss of over 32,000 Palestinian lives.

  • Calls for comprehensive action: Oxfam stressed the urgency of adopting a permanent ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the provision of unrestricted aid into Gaza—measures the international community has long advocated for. The organisation urges UN Security Council Member States to demonstrate the moral leadership expected of them and halt the continued suffering in Gaza.

Implementation and future steps: With the resolution now passed, Mofya underscored the necessity for Member States to ensure its full implementation to prevent future violence against Palestinians. This includes an immediate stop to the transfer of weapons, parts, and ammunition to Israel and Palestinian armed groups. Oxfam argues that a mere two-week pause is insufficient, advocating for a lasting ceasefire and sustainable peace for both Palestinians and Israelis to facilitate mourning, recovery, and reconstruction.