CEASEFIRE NOW! STOP THE KILLINGS OF CIVILIANS!

SAIH condemns all killings of civilians and demands that international law be respected by all parties. Furthermore, we call for a ceasefire to halt the massacre of civilians in Palestine. It is essential to provide full humanitarian access to supply the occupied population with what they need. We condemn Israel's blockade of Gaza and the ongoing bombings. Seven UN special rapporteurs are concerned about an emerging genocide; the international community must take action.

SAIH does not operate in Palestine, but two of our colleagues were supposed to meet with higher education actors in Palestine this week to explore collaboration opportunities. The trip had to be postponed due to the current situation, but SAIH's ambition to establish partnerships in Palestine remains.

The current crisis escalated dramatically with Hamas attacks on October 7, but it did not start there. Long-term solutions are needed to end decades of systematic exclusion and denial of rights. Israel's apartheid policies must cease. In the meantime, people in other countries should be free to protest in solidarity, demand accountability from the perpetrators, and put an end to the violence.

Many of us feel powerless in this situation, but we can all do something. Donate to organizations working for humanitarian aid to the Gaza population, sign petitions, and participate in demonstrations for peace and justice.