CARICOM urges international intervention amid worsening Gaza crisis

CARICOM Heads of Government have condemned the worsening situation in Gaza, describing the humanitarian crisis as appalling and unprecedented.

The Heads who met recently in Jamaica issued a statement in which they expressed grave concern over the “immense, unabated suffering and tragic loss of civilian lives, particularly women and children”.

CARICOM has consistently advocated for an immediate, unconditional and sustained ceasefire, along with unimpeded humanitarian access.

However, they noted that these urgent calls have largely gone unheeded, resulting in a crisis of unprecedented scale.

The regional bloc maintains that the ongoing military operations – including indiscriminate bombardment and direct attacks on civilians seeking aid – represent clear violations of international humanitarian law.

They highlighted reports from the United Nations and humanitarian agencies, describing widespread hunger, disease and displacement, which have worsened the deprivation of essential items such as food, water and medicine.

“The weaponisation of essential resources is morally repugnant, intolerable and unconscionable,” the statement read.

CARICOM criticised both the “October 7, 2023 attacks and hostage-taking” and the subsequent military response, which they described as “disproportionate”. They argued that it contravenes international law and systematically undermines peace efforts.

The community reaffirmed its firm commitment to a two-state solution as the only viable route to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, in line with United Nations Security Council Resolutions and international law.

CARICOM urged the international community not to remain passive as the crisis continues to escalate. (PR/BT)