The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has expressed “horror” at the worsening “catastrophic humanitarian crisis” in Gaza in a renewed call for an immediate ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas.

It has also called for the immediate release of all hostages and for their humane treatment at all times in compliance with international law.

CARICOM said it is concerned at the mounting death toll on the civilian population, including women and children, particularly in Gaza, but also in other areas of the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

And it has called on “all states” to respect and ensure respect for international humanitarian law in accordance with the Geneva Conventions.

“CARICOM… condemns any disregard for international humanitarian law, human rights and the laws of war that have resulted in the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza and deprivation of access to basic necessities including medical care for the people of Palestine,” the regional bloc said in a statement Sunday.

It reaffirmed its “conviction that a lasting, two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can be achieved only by peaceful means, based on the relevant United Nations Resolutions and in accordance with international law”.