Caritas Internationalis issued a strong condemnation of what it calls a “man-made famine” in Gaza, following the United Nations’ declaration of famine on August 22.
The humanitarian crisis escalated after Israeli forces stormed Gaza City on August 20, where nearly one million displaced civilians had sought refuge. According to reports, 273 people, including 112 children, had already died of starvation by the time the UN made its announcement.
Caritas described the situation not as a tragic accident, but as the result of “calculated choices” that have left the civilian population stripped of shelter, food, and safety.
“This is not war. It is the systematic destruction of civilian life,” the Catholic humanitarian network said in its statement, stressing that famine in Gaza is “the outcome of a deliberate strategy: blocking aid, bombing food convoys, destroying infrastructure, and denying basic needs.”
The organization criticized the silence and complicity of powerful nations, noting that “their silence is not neutrality, it is endorsement.” It also warned that the international community’s failure to act represents a collapse of moral responsibility and human dignity.
Quoting Pope Francis’ Fratelli Tutti, Caritas reminded the world: “We are either all saved together or no one is saved.” It also cited Scripture, urging Christians and all people of conscience to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” (Proverbs 31:8).
In its appeal, Caritas Internationalis demanded:
-
An immediate and permanent ceasefire.
-
Unrestricted humanitarian access to deliver aid and medical care.
-
Release of all hostages and arbitrarily detained persons.
-
Deployment of a UN peacekeeping force to protect civilians.
-
Accountability before national and international courts for those responsible.
-
Implementation of the July 2024 ICJ Advisory Opinion, including ending Israel’s unlawful occupation, ceasing settlement activity, and providing reparations.
Caritas concluded by urging the faithful worldwide to raise their voices, pressure their governments, and demand justice for Gaza.
“The famine in Gaza is a test of moral integrity, and too many have failed. To starve a population is to desecrate life. To remain silent is to be complicit,” the statement concluded.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
Latest News
