Occupied Palestinian territory and Israel

Why CAFOD works in the occupied ​​Palestinian territory and Israel

We stand in solidarity with all Palestinians and Israelis striving for peace and justice. We work in partnership with local organisations who are often the first responders in a crisis and those who work towards long-term peace with justice. We support those who challenge the structures which prevent fulfilment of human rights, flourishing lives and relationships.

The current crisis, which escalated in October 2023, has led to unprecedented levels of violence and suffering. The bombardment of Gaza has been relentless. Evidence of profound trauma, particularly among children, is growing. As Pope Francis said, "War is always a defeat", and we condemn the targeting of aid workers, journalists, civilians and civilian infrastructure. CAFOD has called consistently for an immediate and permanent ceasefire.

Over 2 million Palestinians are in desperate need of food, water, shelter, protection and basic necessities. The risk of famine persists, with all residents of Gaza facing catastrophic levels of hunger.​ ​UN OCHA figures from August 2025 indicate that over 61,000 Palestinians have been killed and over 154,000 injured – ​ ​a significant proportion of whom are women and children. According to The Lancet, the real figures are likely much higher​ ​.

At the same time, the West Bank is subject to the highest levels of violence in decades. Military raids, settler attacks and home demolitions continue to escalate, while severe movement restrictions – including road blocks and checkpoints – are further isolating communities and limiting access to essential services. Last year was the deadliest year for Palestinians in the West Bank since UN records began in 2005. The UN reported that “the number of Palestinian children killed by live ammunition fired by Israeli forces has almost tripled since 7 October 2023”.

The crisis is not only one of violence and humanitarian need but also of shrinking space for civil society. ​CAFOD partners have warned of new restrictive measures and crackdowns which are targeting both Palestinian and Israeli human rights organisations, limiting their ability to operate. Freedom of speech is increasingly under threat, with activists, journalists and organisations facing intimidation and repression for speaking out against human rights violations. These escalating restrictions further undermine efforts for peace, justice and accountability.

We support and stand in solidarity with Palestinians and Israelis who work for justice in the region, often at great personal cost. Many CAFOD partner staff have been personally affected by the events of 7 October and its aftermath Our partners continue to gather crucial data, challenge unjust policies, bear witness to human rights violations and challenge young people to reject polarising narratives – to begin to imagine a different and more equal future. ​ ​​ ​

Together, we can build a better world. Donations from you can​ ​​help to work towards a future where no one in the occupied ​Palestinian territory and Israel has their life limited by injustice or poverty – that everyone has the support they need to flourish.