A year ago, on October 7, 2023, the world witnessed an unimaginable tragedy as terrorist attacks claimed the lives of over 1,200 Israelis and led to the abduction of 250 others. Over the past year, the horrors of war have escalated, with the Israeli Government’s bombardment and invasion of Gaza killing over 40,000 Palestinians—half of whom were women and children—with more than 100,000 injured, and 1.9 million displaced from their homes. Today, we mark this somber anniversary, not just to remember what has happened, but to urgently call for peace in the face of ongoing destruction. 

The conflict continues to escalate, crossing borders into Lebanon and causing even more civilian casualties and displacement. The fear of a wider regional war continues to grow. The devastation, loss of life, and the perpetual cycle of violence have left a deep scar across the Middle East, with no end in sight. 

We unequivocally condemn the violence, the loss of innocent lives, and the destruction that has ravaged communities. Innocent civilians have borne the brunt of this conflict, whether in Israel, Gaza, or Lebanon, and are enduring unimaginable suffering. Many humanitarian aid workers have also lost their lives, lives that were dedicated to helping vulnerable people, no matter the cost.  

We stand in firm solidarity with the innocent victims and call for an immediate ceasefire, the safe return of hostages, and unhindered access for humanitarian workers who are risking their lives to deliver aid. 

Over the past year, Caritas Australia, in partnership with Catholic Relief Services (CRS), has worked tirelessly to bring aid to those suffering in Gaza and throughout the region. Vital assistance has been provided to more than 860,000 people in Gaza, as well as thousands of others affected by the conflict across the Middle East.  

Our partners on the ground have delivered food parcels to over 705,000 people and provided multi-purpose cash assistance to 170,000 others, helping families secure basic necessities. More than 85,000 people received essential bedding supplies, and 13,400 were supported with hygiene items, helping to prevent the spread of disease in crowded, makeshift shelters. Over 1,000 children facing the trauma of conflict and loss have been provided with psychosocial support. 

In Australia, we have used our voice to continually advocate for a ceasefire. Our advocacy efforts have involved speaking directly to MPs in Canberra, urging the Australian Government to do more to press for a ceasefire. We have also joined other humanitarian organisations in advocating for the Australian Government to do more to protect humanitarian aid workers – as a result of this advocacy, Australia will be taking a leading role in the development of a Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel.   

Even the smallest donation can be a lifeline. A warm bed, a hot meal, or access to clean water can mean hope and survival for a family in the middle of this conflict.  

We stand with the people of the Middle East, with a firm belief that peace is possible, and it is up to all of us to help make it a reality. 

Let us honour the lives lost and those still suffering by raising our voices for peace—today and always.