Today, on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) reiterates its unwavering commitment to advocating for peace, justice, and the protection of human rights, dignity, and self-determination of the Palestinian people.
A call for immediate action
The ITF renews its urgent calls for:
- An immediate and permanent ceasefire with full respect for international humanitarian law.
- Unhindered humanitarian access including the establishment and continuation of humanitarian corridors.
- The immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and those held without due judicial process.
- The safe and swift return of transport workers and other civilians trapped by the conflict.
Speaking on the ongoing crisis, ITF President Paddy Crumlin stated: “The ongoing atrocities in Palestine are a damning indictment of governments who have failed to uphold international law.
“The systemic targeting of civilians, the destruction of homes, schools, and hospitals, and the mass displacement of millions is not collateral damage. Congress has mandated us escalate our support for the Palestinian people, including pressuring governments to halt arms sales and hold perpetrators accountable for preventing international crimes.”
The ITF also reiterates its calls on all States Parties to the Genocide Convention to fulfil their common obligation to prevent genocide, following the binding provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in January 2024.
The human toll of war
The conflict has exacted a horrifying toll. The United Nations Human Rights Office has reported that nearly 70% of fatalities in Gaza are women and children. Since October 7, 2023, at least 43,972 Palestinians have been killed, over 104,008 injured, and 1.9 million displaced – 85% of Gaza’s population – facing critical shortages of food, water, and medical care.
"These numbers reflect inhumanity on a massive scale," said Crumlin. “But this is not just about statistics — these are the lives of children, women and men who deserve safety, dignity, and the chance to live in peace — and every state failing to act is complicit.”
ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton said: "The immense suffering in Palestine is a scar on world leaders’ collective conscience. Thousands of lives have been lost, and countless children, women, and men have been left to endure unimaginable trauma. The ITF stands united with our affiliates in demanding an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian relief, and a path to lasting peace.”
Strengthened mandate for ITF affiliates
At the ITF’s 46th Congress in Marrakech in October 2024, affiliates passed a historic resolution mandating global action to address the escalating crisis in Palestine. The resolution calls for:
- An end to arms sales: Pressure governments to halt the sale and transfer of arms and military equipment that contribute to further violations of international humanitarian law.
- Support for international legal institutions: Urge governments to bolster trust in the international legal order and international legal institutions such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in ensuring accountability and justice.
Humanitarian and reconstruction efforts: Encourage governments to increase funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and reconstruction efforts in Gaza, focusing on decent work, resilience, and rebuilding lives.
Arrest Warrants from the ICC
In a significant development, on 21 November 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military commander, Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri. They are charged with war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The ITF welcomed this step as a crucial step towards justice.
ITF President Paddy Crumlin said: “This decision by the ICC is a vital step in the fight for accountability and the rule of law. The ICC’s actions remind us that no one is above the law, and those responsible for atrocities, must face justice. Signatories to the Rome Statute must now uphold their obligations under the Treaty.”
Progress on ILO Complaint
The ITF welcomes progress on the ILO complaint filed by global unions concerning the obligations of Israeli authorities to redress and remedy a range of abuses, including unpaid wages and withheld benefits for more than 200,000 Palestinian workers employed in Israel.
The case has been deemed receivable, and an ad hoc tripartite body is being established to examine the systemic exploitation of workers’ wages. This marks a critical step towards justice for Palestinian workers.
Global transport workers solidarity
Transport workers worldwide have stepped up, organising fundraisers, staging protests and raising awareness to support Palestinian communities. From dockworkers taking action to protest arms shipments to unions amplifying calls for ceasefire, these acts exemplify transport workers’ commitment to solidarity and justice.
The ITF Palestine Solidarity Fund remains a source of financial support for unions and workers impacted by the conflict. Contributions have helped provide immediate humanitarian aid, supported reconstruction efforts and promoted long-term projects for democracy and human rights. Affiliates are encouraged to continue donating generously to strengthen these vital efforts.
The ITF remains steadfast in its commitment to the Palestinian people and to all civilians affected by this devastating conflict.
"Peace cannot be a distant hope — it is an urgent necessity," said Cotton. "The world must act now to uphold international law, defend humanity and end the atrocities in Palestine. If we fail to act, we betray every principle of justice and decency."
“Transport workers worldwide will not falter in their solidarity,” concluded Crumlin. “Governments may fail in their duty, but our movement will continue to fight for justice, dignity, and peace for the Palestinian people."
For more information on how to support the ITF Palestine Solidarity Fund or to join our campaigns, visit ITF’s website.
