PHM Statement supporting Ceasefire and in solidarity with Palestine

The People’s Health Movement, a global network of grassroots health activists, academics, and civil society organizations, joins the people of Gaza in relief and cautious hope as a temporary ceasefire comes into effect. After 15 months of devastating and genocidal aggression, this ceasefire offers a much-needed reprieve.

The atrocities committed against the people of Gaza have shattered historical records for barbarity. The genocide inflicted by Israel has resulted in the highest number of child amputees, the most journalists killed, and the greatest destruction of homes in the recorded history of warfare. The health sector, in particular, has been systematically targeted—more than 1,000 health workers have lost their lives, and half of Gaza’s hospitals have been rendered inoperative.

We honor our heroic colleagues in Gaza, who have selflessly served their communities under unimaginable conditions. We hope the ceasefire allows them a moment to breathe, rest, and recover, as well as an opportunity to begin the urgent task of repairing, rebuilding, and restocking Gaza’s health facilities.

However, a ceasefire alone is not enough. We call for the immediate release of detained colleagues, including Dr. Ahmed Mohanna and Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, two hospital directors, and demand that Israel provide unrestricted humanitarian access without delay.

Justice must be pursued and the ceasefire should make place for peace in Gaza as well as the West Bank. The perpetrators of these atrocities must be held accountable. Israel, along with the United States, which has supported the genocide, must pay reparations and fully fund the rebuilding of Gaza. Moreover, the same logic should be applied to the West Bank.

Ultimately, lasting peace in Palestine is unattainable under the systems of apartheid and occupation. They must be dismantled for peace to take root in Palestine.

The People’s Health Movement is committed to intensifying our solidarity with Palestine. We stand with the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) campaign and reaffirm our resolve to work tirelessly until justice and peace are achieved in Palestine.