"The ceasefire is a beginning, not an end" - calling for permanent peace in Gaza

On January 20, 2025, hundreds of participants onboard Peace Boat gathered to welcome the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. While celebrating the possibility of a reprieve for the people of Gaza and the release of hostages, the event was also a dire reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis, and the need for urgent support from the international community.

A video message from long-time Peace Boat partner in Gaza, humanitarian worker Zaher Sbaih, was screened to the audience that gathered on the ship's open deck (view below on this page).

Responding to his words on the importance of support for recovery and rebuilding the lives of the Palestinian people, 1.27 million Japanese yen (approximately 8000 USD) was raised on the spot for Peace Boat's ongoing food relief project (click for details). Peace Boat will continue to work with its partners in Palestine to provide such support and solidarity, as well as appeal for a permanent peace and justice.

A message from Gaza

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Thank you all for gathering today with hearts full of compassion and determination.
I am speaking to you for the first time after 470 days of genocide and war.

Today, I speak with great hope, especially with the ceasefire agreement set to come into effect.
The ceasefire in Gaza brings a glimmer of light amidst the darkness that has shadowed the lives of so many.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The situation in Gaza is catastrophic.
The people of Gaza have endured unimaginable hardships. Their resilience and strength have been tested time and time again.

Since the violence escalated in October 2023, tens of thousands of Gazans have been killed or injured, thousands of homes, schools and vital infrastructure have been destroyed, and people have been displaced multiple times under shelling and strikes. During this war, the Israeli government has used the starvation of civilians as a method of warfare in the Gaza Strip.

In Gaza, securing decent drinking water, food, electricity, and medical supplies is a daily struggle. Malnutrition among children is spreading fast and reaching devastating and unprecedented levels due to the wide-reaching impacts of the war and ongoing restrictions on aid delivery.

Sisters and Brothers,

The ceasefire is going into effect. Today, I can say we have survived the genocide, but I wonder, have we survived life after such massive destruction?

Now, more than ever, we need your support to recover and rebuild our lives. Your support is not just about providing vegetables but offering hope.
Your donation reaches far beyond immediate relief—it brings a glimmer of hope and resilience to a community in dire need.

This campaign isn’t just about food; it’s about a message. It’s about saying, "We see you, we care for you, and we stand with you." The ceasefire is a beginning, not an end, and together, we can ensure that it becomes a turning point toward recovery, hope, dignity, and a chance for a healthier future.

In advance, thank you for your generosity, your humanity, and for believing in the power of hope and unity.