GEORGETOWN, Guyana — The Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has voiced deep alarm over the escalating violence and worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, singling out Israel’s recent decision to seize and hold Gaza City as a move that could dramatically intensify the suffering of civilians.
In a statement issued Thursday, COFCOR said it was “deeply distressed” by ongoing reports of targeted killings of journalists and media workers, and condemned the continuing loss of life, particularly among women and children.
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“We reiterate the grave concern expressed by the Forty-Ninth Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM over the immense, unabated suffering and tragic loss of civilian lives,” the statement read.
Warning on Gaza City Seizure
COFCOR’s strongest rebuke came in response to Israel’s announced plan to maintain control over Gaza City — a move the bloc warned could amount to de facto annexation.
“Any such action would prolong the conflict, exacerbate the humanitarian crisis, and further endanger the lives of Israeli hostages being held by Hamas,” the release stated, adding that the decision risked deepening famine conditions, triggering mass displacement, and causing widespread starvation.
The council noted that the siege and restriction of aid flows have already created acute shortages of food, water, and medical supplies, with United Nations agencies warning of severe malnutrition among the population.
Call for Humanitarian Access
CARICOM urged all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and to ensure unrestricted humanitarian access. It also emphasized the importance of safeguarding journalists and aid workers, stressing that attacks on these groups violate international humanitarian law.
Regional Diplomatic Stance
This latest statement follows a series of CARICOM communiqués calling for an immediate ceasefire and the pursuit of a negotiated, two-state solution. The bloc has historically supported Palestinian self-determination while maintaining diplomatic relations with Israel, a balance it says is rooted in a commitment to international law and human rights.
Several CARICOM member states have also backed resolutions at the United Nations condemning attacks on civilians and calling for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Background
The current conflict in Gaza erupted after the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, which killed more than 1,200 people and led to the taking of hostages. Israel’s subsequent military campaign has resulted in thousands of Palestinian deaths and the displacement of much of Gaza’s population. The United Nations has repeatedly warned that parts of the territory are facing imminent famine without a significant and sustained increase in aid deliveries.
CARICOM leaders say they will continue to press for international action to end hostilities, protect civilians, and address what they describe as “one of the gravest humanitarian crises of our time.”
