As violence and humanitarian suffering continue to escalate in the Middle East, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has issued a powerful call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza and is urging the international community to act swiftly to prevent further regional destabilization.
In a strongly worded statement released by its Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), CARICOM described the situation in Gaza as a deepening humanitarian catastrophe, with civilians—particularly women and children—paying the ultimate price.
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“Every day brings new reports of innocent lives lost, the continued blocking of food, medicine, and humanitarian aid, and the denial of basic human dignity. These actions are in direct violation of international humanitarian law and must end immediately,” the statement declared.
While unequivocally condemning the attacks of October 7, 2023, and the taking of hostages, CARICOM also denounced the disproportionate military response and the ongoing expansion of illegal settlements, which the bloc said continue to erode the possibility of a sustainable peace.
“We cannot support any response that disregards the sanctity of civilian life or violates international legal norms,” the regional body emphasized.
Reaffirming its support for a two-state solution as the only credible path to lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, CARICOM demanded not only a halt to the violence but also the immediate release of all hostages and administrative detainees and full humanitarian access to the affected areas.
The statement also highlighted growing alarm over the potential for a broader conflict following direct military clashes between Israel and Iran. CARICOM warned that the situation, if left unchecked, could plunge the region into a dangerous and uncontrollable escalation with severe global consequences.
“The threat of regional war is real. Now is the time for de-escalation, for diplomacy, and for the exercise of maximum restraint. Retaliatory strikes and military posturing will only fuel further suffering,” the ministers urged.
CARICOM called on all global actors to intensify diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict and underscored the need for the international community to redouble its commitment to dialogue, negotiation, and respect for international law.
“The Caribbean Community stands ready to work alongside international partners to help forge a just, durable, and peaceful solution that upholds the rights, security, and sovereignty of all peoples in the Middle East,” COFCOR stated.
As violence continues to spiral, CARICOM’s appeal adds a firm regional voice to the growing global demand for an end to the bloodshed and the restoration of humanitarian protections.
