Palestinians sit on chair amid the rubble of their houses which were destroyed by Israeli air strikes    [Mohammed Salem/Reuters]

United Nations, January 23 (RHC)-- A group of 37 nongovernmental organizations have issued a joint statement welcoming the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and calling for “full adherence” to its terms, including the release of captives and prisoners and the delivery of aid to Palestinians in Gaza.

The group – which includes Action Against Hunger, Christian Aid, Danish Refugee Council and Islamic Relief Agency – also called for unhindered humanitarian access and the protection of civilians and infrastructure.  They also said there must be accountability and justice as well as a commitment to lasting peace in the occupied Palestinian territory.

“It is crucial to hold accountable those responsible for violations of international law, including war crimes and crimes against humanity, to prevent future atrocities and uphold human rights. Fact-finding missions and the work of international courts must be respected by all,” the groups said.