Salaam John,

Today marks one year since the devastation of Gaza began in response to the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the taking of over 200 hostages. Since then, Israel’s massive and disproportionate military campaign has claimed the lives of more than 40,000 Palestinians, displaced millions, and left entire communities facing famine and unimaginable suffering. While Emgage Action condemns any targeting of civilians, Israel’s brutal military campaign against the people of Palestine, and now Lebanon, have been nothing short of horrific.

We know that October 7 was not the beginning of violence against Palestinians. For the past 76 years, Palestinians have been systematically oppressed, displaced, and denied their basic human rights.

We stand firm in our call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the de-escalation of violence across the region, especially in Lebanon. Additionally, we urge a release of all hostages and prisoners. What we have witnessed is not just a failure of diplomacy but a complete moral collapse—an affront to the dignity and humanity that should be at the center of our collective conscience. The disregard for human life has been profound and unsettling, and it must end now.

In this time of unprecedented devastation, we urge our leaders to act swiftly and decisively to restore peace and protect human dignity. There is no justification for the continued violence and destruction. Enough is enough.