KUALA LUMPUR: The announcement of a ceasefire agreement in Gaza marks a crucial step towards ending over 15 months of devastating conflict and enables parties to deliver much-needed humanitarian aid and reunite hostages with their families after prolonged captivity.
Mercy Malaysia president Datuk Dr Ahmad Faizal Mohd Perdaus stressed the urgent need to ensure full humanitarian access for all civilians in need of lifesaving assistance.
"This includes opening access for both essential aid items and humanitarian personnel, as well as securing safe and reliable routes to affected areas," he stated.
"Our collective focus must now shift towards these critical humanitarian efforts. The scale of the crisis requires a swift and comprehensive response to alleviate the suffering of those affected," he said on Thursday (Jan 16).
Ahmad Faizal urged all parties to fully comply with international humanitarian law by protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, ensuring safety for aid workers, providing unfettered access to people in need wherever they are, and removing all obstacles to the entry of essential aid.
In the same statement, Mercy Malaysia reiterated its commitment towards the Palestinian relief effort.
"We will continue to deliver essential aid, monitor the humanitarian impact, and explore every avenue to support those in need.
"This ceasefire, while a significant milestone, is only the beginning of a long journey toward rebuilding lives and restoring dignity," it stated.
"The hope now is that this agreement will hold and evolve into a permanent resolution, bringing lasting peace, humanitarian relief, and renewed hope for the people of Gaza.
"This ceasefire is not just a pause in violence; it is a call to action for the global community to rally behind those who have suffered and work together toward a sustainable future for Gaza,” it added.
Qatari Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman, announced on Wednesday (Jan 15) evening the successful mediation in reaching a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, noting that its implementation will begin this Sunday. – Bernama
