Humanists UK expresses its deep concern over the resumption of hostilities in Gaza and Israel following the breakdown of ceasefire negotiations and calls on the UK government to use every channel available to press for civilian protection, humanitarian access, and resumed ceasefire negotiations.
The renewed violence in the region brings with it an increase in the devastating human toll that has characterised this conflict. Already weakened infrastructure faces further destruction, civilian casualties continue to mount, and humanitarian conditions — particularly in Gaza — deteriorate to crisis levels. The World Health Organisation has previously reported critical shortages of medical supplies, while the UN has warned of widespread hunger and displacement affecting hundreds of thousands of people.
The humanist perspective is one grounded in a commitment to reason, evidence, and the inherent dignity of every person. As such we believe that our shared humanity and capacity for empathy provide common ground for addressing this conflict. While respecting diverse perspectives on historical and cultural claims, we maintain that protecting human life, alleviating suffering, and securing basic rights must remain paramount concerns that transcend political divisions.
Our response is guided by a fundamental humanist principle: all human lives have equal value. No human being — neither Israeli or Palestinian — should live under the constant threat of violence, displacement, or the anguish of separation from loved ones. Gaza’s civilians face extraordinary hardship amidst destroyed neighbourhoods, limited access to essential resources, and severe restrictions on movement. The continued captivity of Israeli hostages compounds the wider human tragedy, and their safe return remains an urgent priority alongside the protection of all civilian life.
We acknowledge the intricacies of geopolitical conflicts and recognise that events in this region elicit fierce condemnation and dehumanising rhetoric even from people of otherwise good will and good conscience. As public discourse around these events grows increasingly polarised, we encourage everyone to approach discussions with understanding, dialogue, and empathy, helping both to bridge our divides and keep alive the hope of an enduring peace.
We must never lose sight of the individual lives at stake: parents, children, neighbours, and friends who all deserve the chance to live in peace and plan a future for themselves. No person and no community can thrive in an endless cycle of grief and trauma. A just and lasting solution can only rest on protection of everyone’s fundamental rights, rebuilding trust, and ensuring accountability for those who have suffered.
We must hold firm to the conviction that every human life is of equal moral worth. In these darkest of times, compassion and rational hope are our guiding lights, reminding us of our shared responsibility to defend human dignity — wherever it is threatened.