The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, halting the devastating 15-month war that has inflicted untold death and suffering on millions of civilians.
This agreement provides an urgent possibility to end the bloodshed, deliver unhindered and rapid life-saving humanitarian aid to Gaza, reunite families, and begin the arduous journey of rebuilding what has been torn apart.
Bold action is needed to ensure justice is brought to bear, perpetrators of atrocity crimes are held accountable, human rights are protected, and the lives and livelihoods are rebuilt, to establish a safe, just and sustainable peace in the region.
ITF President Paddy Crumlin said:
This ceasefire must do more than silence bombs – it must open the door to hope, justice and recovery for all those who have suffered unimaginable pain over the past 15 months."
“We call on both parties to uphold their commitments in full and strictly implement the ceasefire, prioritise delivering critical humanitarian assistance to Gaza and the unconditional release of all hostages, to ensure that this moment marks a genuine turning point. Millions of Palestinians are beyond the brink of starvation, hospitals are destroyed, medical supplies exhausted, families are displaced, and entire communities are traumatised – this should never happen again anywhere.”
The ITF reaffirms its commitments to:
- A permanent ceasefire with full respect for international humanitarian law.
- The establishment of humanitarian corridors and increased delivery of vital aid to alleviate the suffering of millions in Gaza.
- The unconditional release of all hostages and others held without due judicial process, including transport workers such as seafarers kidnapped in the Red Sea.
- Strict adherence to international law by all parties to protect civilian lives, transport workers and key workers in the region.
- Bolster support for the international legal order and institutions.
ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton added:
Peace is more than the absence of war. It requires justice, dignity, and respect for international law and human rights. This ceasefire must be the first step in rebuilding lives, restoring communities, and ensuring accountability."
“The ITF and our affiliates globally are committed to working with governments and international institutions to support all efforts to build lasting stability in the region. Transport workers will play a critical role in delivering lifesaving supplies and the materials needed to rebuild after the war. We stand ready to support our Palestinian affiliates with immediate relief and the reconstruction and recovery of Gaza and its economy.”
The ITF is also committed to building stronger bonds of solidarity between unions in Palestine, Israel, and internationally to ensure that transport workers’ rights are safeguarded during this critical time.
“Strengthened international cooperation between unions is essential to protect workers from exploitation, rebuild livelihoods, and advocate for decent working conditions, ensuring the voices of transport workers are at the forefront of the recovery and peacebuilding process,” said Cotton.
This ceasefire offers a moment to reflect on our shared humanity and recommit to achieving a two-state solution with Israel and the State of Palestine living side by side in peace, consistent with UN Security Council Resolutions 242 and 338, to end illegal settlements, occupation, and violence.
For further information or interview requests, please contact media@itf.org.uk
Image: REUTERS
