IUF backs ITUC call for immediate ceasefire in Israel and Gaza

The IUF stands with the ITUC in demanding urgent implementation of the UN Security Council’s call for a ceasefire as the violence and death toll in Gaza continue to escalate.

The Security Council has urged “De-escalation of the situation, restoration of calm, reinstitution of the November 2012 ceasefire and respect for international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians.”

“An immediate ceasefire and urgent humanitarian assistance to Gaza must be followed by renewed international pressure to end Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and find a negotiated settlement to respect the 1967 borders between Israel and a Palestinian state.”  said ITUC General Secretary Sharan Burrow.  

IUF general secretary Ron Oswald commented, “A cease fire is imperative to stop the bloodshed and protect lives on both sides but only a permanent negotiated agreement recognizing the existence of two viable states can bring some guarantee of long-lasting peace between Israel and Palestine.”