Updated 21 January 2008

Israel has stopped attacking Gaza, and Hamas in Gaza has stopped sending rockets into Israel.  We hope this truce will continue.

Christian Aid says that all crossings into Gaza must be fully opened as soon as possible, so that food and medicines can get to the people who need them the most. 

More than 1300 Palestinians have died since the attacks started on 27 December 2008, as well as thirteen Israelis.  Thousands of people have been injured.

Tens of thousands of houses have been destroyed and 40,000 people are homeless.

Christian Aid has been giving food and blankets to people who have lost everything, and providing medical care for the wounded.

Gaza is part of the Occupied Palestinian Territories in the Middle East.  The conflict between Israel and the Palestinians has been going on for more than 60 years, but this was a new and extreme outbreak of violence. Over the past year and a half, Israel has prevented sufficient food and medicines entering the Gaza Strip. Israel says this 'blockade' is to stop the rockets Hamas has been firing – but Hamas has said that they were firing the rockets because of the blockade itself.

Now Israelis and Palestinians need to talk to deal with these issues and stop fighting breaking out again. 

Christian Aid is appealing for help for the ordinary people affected by the violence in Gaza. Find out how you can help.