Amnesty International Urges End to Illegal Gaza Blockade on International Day
November 29 is recognized as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, established by the United Nations in 1978. This date marks the anniversary of the UN General Assembly’s adoption of Resolution 181 in 1947, which proposed the partition of Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states. Nearly 80 years later, the Gaza Strip continues to suffer under a blockade deemed “illegal” by various human rights organizations, including Amnesty International.
Background of the Gaza Blockade
The conflict in Gaza escalated following an attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023. This incident resulted in the deaths of 1,221 people, primarily civilians. In response, Israel launched a military offensive, which has since led to over 63,557 casualties and widespread destruction of infrastructure. With the majority of the population displaced, the situation has reached critical humanitarian levels.
Amnesty International’s Call for Action
On the International Day of Solidarity, Amnesty International reiterated its call to end the illegal blockade of Gaza. This blockade, instituted since March 2, 2025, has resulted in severe restrictions on humanitarian aid. According to Aymeric Elluin, a spokesperson for Amnesty, immediate action is necessary to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people.
- Over 63,557 deaths reported due to the Israeli offensive.
- Critical humanitarian crisis affecting Gaza’s population.
- Call for an end to the blockade to allow humanitarian aid.
Recent Findings and Recommendations
The UN has issued alarming reports stressing that the survival of Gaza is at stake. A comprehensive recovery plan is urgently needed, as ongoing military operations have undermined essential survival pillars, including food, housing, and healthcare. The UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) highlighted that the conflict has plunged Gaza into a man-made disaster.
Global Response and Accountability
Despite the ceasefire established over a month ago and the release of remaining Israeli hostages on October 13, 2025, concerns over a dangerous illusion of normalcy persist. The international community, particularly the European Union, has been criticized for neglecting necessary sanctions against Israel. Amnesty’s Elluin warned that the focus on Gaza has diminished, leaving two million people trapped in a devastated area.
- Two million residents remain in Gaza, with 50-58% of the territory occupied by Israeli forces.
- The UN estimates $70 billion will be required for reconstruction efforts.
Amnesty International emphasizes that to avoid further humanitarian disaster, the illegal blockade must end, and substantial humanitarian aid should be permitted into Gaza. The organization’s advocacy calls for globally coordinated action to ensure the survival and recovery of the Palestinian people.
