Urgent Call for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid in Gaza

On October 4, 2025, a significant event will take place in Tokyo, aimed at drawing attention to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which has been ongoing for two years. The theme of the event, "Ceasefire and Food Now!" reflects the desperate needs of those suffering in the affected regions. With joint statements from NGOs dedicated to Palestinian support, the gathering will feature a report meeting and a candlelight vigil to mourn the lives lost and advocate for immediate action.

Context of the Crisis

Since the onset of this humanitarian tragedy, over 65,000 lives have been lost in Gaza, with children making up a substantial portion of that number—20,000 young lives extinguished amidst the devastation. Reports indicate that the Israeli government has intensified their offensive in Gaza City, where around 600,000 civilians remain. The relentless bombing and ground assaults have left countless homes, schools, and hospitals in ruins. Coupled with a blockade that restricts access to vital resources like food, clean water, and medical supplies, the situation continues to worsen.

On August 22, 2025, the United Nations has warned of a famine in Gaza, predicting that a third of the population—641,000 people—will face extreme hunger levels by the end of September. The dire consequences of this humanitarian disaster are alarming, as malnutrition and starvation claim the dignity and lives of the youngest and most vulnerable.

The Upcoming Event

The event scheduled for October 4 will take place at two key locations: the St. Andrew’s Church and Zojoji Temple. The first part will be a report meeting from 5:00 PM to 6:15 PM, held at St. Andrew’s Church, where NGO staff and activists will share insights and testimonials from those directly affected in Gaza. Following this, a candlelight vigil will commence at 7:00 PM at Zojoji Temple, where participants will express their solidarity through light—a symbol of hope amidst despair.

Participants outside Tokyo are encouraged to light candles simultaneously at home, sharing their support online with the hashtags #CeasefireNow and #Gaza. The hope is to illuminate the night with compassion and demand an urgent response from global leaders, fostering unity in advocating for peace.

Call to Action

The NGOs involved, including APLA, Save the Children Japan, and many others, urge individuals and media to support this action. Journalists are encouraged to cover the event, amplifying the voices calling for a ceasefire. Our collective message weighs heavily on the hearts of many: we cannot ignore the suffering of innocent lives. The time for action is now.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made people more aware of the fragility of health and humanitarian support. This awareness can translate into tangible action, and the NGOs present hope that people will feel compelled to join the movement for change. Collectively, we must challenge governments to prioritize human rights and humanitarian laws, providing immediate relief to the people of Gaza.

As we prepare for this significant day, those attending the event are reminded of safety protocols—LED candles will be provided to ensure a safe vigil experience. Additionally, efforts will be made to accommodate individuals with disabilities, demonstrating a commitment to accessibility in humanitarian initiatives.

In these challenging times, together, we can foster awareness and action for peace, demanding an end to violence and insisting on the restoration of humanitarian aid as a critical lifeline for those in need. Join us in this pivotal moment, standing in solidarity with the people of Gaza as we strive for a brighter future.