The National Council of Australian Muslims (NCAM) has welcomed the “long overdue” ceasefire agreement in Gaza, which brings a much-needed reprieve to a population devastated by 15 months of violence and destruction. Sajida Salman, NCAM Director, emphasized that this ceasefire marks a critical first step toward a just and lasting peace. “After over a year of mass murder and total devastation, we breathe a sigh of relief, but this is just the beginning. The international community, including the Australian government, should have pushed for this ceasefire long ago, rather than contributing to the funding of further destruction,” said Sajida.

NCAM calls for immediate action to ensure the ceasefire holds, and urges the international community to take concrete steps to end Israel’s illegal occupation of Palestinian territories. NCAM stresses that the Israeli government must not be allowed to sabotage the ceasefire agreement. Sajida reiterated, “We must push for the end of the occupation and ensure Israel’s compliance with this deal. Only then can we pave the way for a peaceful future for the Palestinian people.”

The situation in Gaza is a humanitarian disaster of unimaginable proportions, with over 46,600 lives lost and countless others unaccounted for. This is not just a tragedy but a moral and legal outrage that demands accountability. NCAM insists that the International Criminal Court continue to pursue war crimes charges against Benjamin Netanyahu who is responsible for this genocide. “We cannot allow the failure to stop these atrocities to be repeated. Justice must prevail,” Sajida said.

Humanitarian aid must flow immediately to address urgent needs such as starvation, malnutrition, and the suffering of children left in desperation. This ceasefire agreement, which is set to be implemented in phases, offers the first glimmer of hope after over a year of war. However, it is vital that negotiations for the next phases focus on bringing an end to the war and securing a lasting peace. “We hope that this ceasefire will bring an end to the genocidal war in Gaza and set the stage for a permanent resolution that ends both the occupation and the oppression of the Palestinian people,” concluded Sajida Salman.

For media inquiries, please contact: media@ncam.au

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National Council of Australian Muslims (NCAM) acknowledges all First Peoples as the Traditional Custodians throughout the land across Australia, and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We recognise and respect the historical and traditional connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have to the land, water, culture and community. We appreciate the importance of the world’s oldest living culture, and support the union of a reconciled Australia. NCAM is committed to ensuring inclusion, equity and equality.