Marking One Year of Devastating War and Bloodshed

Statement by Carrie Hessler-Radelet, President and CEO of Global Communities

With deep concern and a commitment to peace and humanity, we mark one year since the tragic events of October 7 and the start of the war that has devastated and displaced millions. Rooted in decades of conflict and hardship, the war has brought immense suffering and loss of life across the region, with Gaza facing one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world today.

As we reflect on the past year, we are especially focused on the terrible impact of the war on our own staff and the people we serve. For over 30 years, Global Communities’ work in the West Bank and Gaza has focused on partnering with local organizations to help strengthen the resilience of Palestinian people and address the profound impacts of the longstanding conflict on their lives and livelihoods. From rebuilding infrastructure and promoting economic development to fostering civic engagement and advancing women’s leadership, our programs have touched the lives of thousands and thousands of people. The disruption to this progress is devastating, but our commitment to supporting the Palestinian people on their path to peace, healing and recovery remains as strong as ever.

The heartbreaking losses brought upon by the war are felt deeply by our humanitarian response teams, who have been on the frontlines of the crisis response from day one. Our colleagues continue to work tirelessly, delivering lifesaving services, including food and water, to their communities, all while facing violence, displacement, severe trauma and significant logistical challenges brought on by widespread insecurity and limitations on aid. Despite these overwhelming obstacles, their dedication to helping those in need remains unwavering.

The brutality of this war is deeply horrifying, as are the attacks on humanitarian convoys and the tragic loss of more than 300 humanitarian workers who gave their lives in service of others. Over the past year, we have mourned the loss of two of our colleagues, Hani Jnena and Alaa Abu Al-Khair, who were killed in separate airstrikes. The pain is deepened by the devastating loss of far too many family members of our surviving staff, intensifying the heartache and suffering experienced by everyone.

On this somber occasion, and for the millions enduring displacement, fear, hunger and unimaginable loss, we urge the end of violence of all kinds and on all sides, a recognition of the dignity and common humanity of all people, and strict adherence to humanitarian law. This must include a ceasefire, fundamental to the protection of life and the delivery of humanitarian services; the safety and security of aid workers; the removal of barriers to the delivery of humanitarian assistance; and the safeguarding of all civilians and essential infrastructure. While tensions persist and the threat of a broader conflict grows, we join our colleagues in the humanitarian sector in calling for a lasting and peaceful resolution to this crisis. Our shared humanity and the well-being of countless lives depend on it.

To our colleagues in the region: Your courage and dedication inspire me every day. I grieve with you, and my heart is with you, your families and your communities as you navigate this horrific crisis. Please know that we are deeply grateful for all that you do and are in awe of your resilience. We will continue to support you in every way we can, standing for peace and healing.

May peace prevail soon.