Vigil 74

The 74th vigil held with empty pans

May 2025

This vigil took place against the backdrop of increasing stress in Gaza as the blockage of supplies begins

to bite. Over 60 days have passed without food, fuel or aid being allowed in. There are distressing pictures of Palestinians arriving with empty food pots and utensils in the hope of acquiring meagre rations. It is part of the plan by Israel to force Hamas to release the remaining hostages they took on October 7th. Several nations have condemned Israel for using food supplies as a weapon of war. People attending the vigil held empty pans to show support for the lack of food available to those living in Gaza.

Israel disputes the claims and they say that aid is being stolen by Hamas for sale on the black market, a claim disputed by aid agencies. Journalists are not allowed into Gaza so establishing truth is difficult in these circumstances.

Over 52,000 have now died in Gaza the majority being women and children. The International Committee of the Red Cross warned that the humanitarian response was on the verge of collapse.

Sources: The Independent; ICRC; Aljazeera; Guardian; Haaretz

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A video of the vigil is now available with thanks to Peter Gloyns