Gaza and the Occupied West Bank on the edge of erasure

Author: Russ Testa

Date Published: June 05, 2025

Since the original publication of this article on June 5th, conditions have significantly deteriorated, particularly for the people of Gaza. Although open hostilities between Israel and Iran have subsided with a ceasefire, the situation in Gaza has worsened, as global attention shifted away from the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, Palestinians in the Occupied West Bank have faced heightened restrictions, with many unable to access their farms or places of employment outside their communities. In light of the escalating crisis and the looming threat of mass starvation in Gaza, expressions of solidarity and support are more critical than ever.

The living conditions of Palestinians in Gaza and the Occupied Territories of the West Bank have rapidly deteriorating leaving thousands at risk of mass starvation and death. 

From the very beginning of this most recent iteration of the violence in the Holy Land, the Franciscans have decried the attack of Hamas on Israelis on Oct 7, 2023, and been unequivocal that the response of the Israeli government is also immoral in its level of suffering brought upon civilians.   

We have continued to advocate and pray for peace as we uphold the legacy of nearly 800 years of Franciscan ministerial presence in the Holy Land. We stand on the side of life and nonviolence. 

A recent study from 46 international and Palestinian NGOs (non-governmental organizations) attempting to provide humanitarian services there shows: 

  • A nearly complete (93%) exhaustion of all aid supplies in Gaza — leading thousands on the verge of mass starvation. 

  • Massive movement restrictions (93%) in the West Bank make the delivery of any assistance in the occupied territories more difficult if not impossible. 

The study is titled The Edge of Erasure — a tragically correct description. 

The result of this blockage of humanitarian aid to the Palestinians of the Holy Land will result in the displacement (either through death or forced migration) of most Palestinian people. This is against international law as well as immoral. 

Our prayer, voice and action are needed more than ever. We encourage you to: 

1. Include the plight of the Palestinians in your prayers of the faithful (e.g., We pray for the Palestinians of the Holy Land that they may receive just humanitarian assistance to thrive, safeguard their communities and not be subject to near constant violence.) 

2. Increase awareness of the current status and progression of this war. These resources may be helpful: 

  • An appeal for Franciscan Action by Jewish American testimony prepared by Peace Activist Mark Braveman for an event, "Voices in the Wilderness: Stories of Resilience, Solidarity, and Hope," hosted by Siena College. Mr. Braverman urges all Franciscan-hearted people to intensify their efforts in Gospel-rooted peacemaking efforts and not be afraid to speak out against the actions of the Israeli government in Gaza and other affected areas. 

  • Mini-courses to deepen our understanding of the humanitarian and legal challenges in the region led by the Catholic Advisory Council of Churches for Middle East Peace 

3. Speak to your elected officials—the Israeli government is unlikely to change its approach without pressure from the United States  

The death toll of Palestinian citizens is rising. The violence is leading people to bring violence and death to the Jewish community in the United States in response to the atrocities visited on the Palestinians. There is NO JUSTIFICATION for these attacks. 

We must add our voices to the emotional appeal of Pope Leo for “ceasefire now!” There is no time to waste.