The tragedy of the war being waged by Israel in Gaza continues unabated, the fighting raging while terrified children perish amid disease, hunger and squalor.
Among the latest deadly episodes, Israeli tanks in western Rafah shelled tents serving as the makeshift homes for some of the thousands displaced and eight people were killed in an air attack in Gaza City.
They join the remorseless litany of indefensible actions that have become a grotesque parody of the argument that Israel has a right to defend itself.
Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists that his campaign will continue until Hamas, authors of the deranged October 7 attacks, has been wiped out.
But at what cost? Has month after month of slaughter - around 37,500 people have been killed and 85,700 wounded - really brought Netanyahu and his shaky government, propped up by extremists, any closer to what they might claim as a victory, however pyrrhic?
We make no apology for continuing to highlight this appalling crisis. It would be better if more of our political parties, currently campaigning for votes in the general election, did the same.
The humanitarian disaster in Gaza does, however, continue to be met with an outpouring of grassroots support from people across the community who want to - who are compelled to - do something, anything, to help.
These acts of kindness and solidarity include Cliftonville FC’s 2017 boys’ team putting the logo of Medical Aid Palestine on the sleeve of their jersey. It’s a gesture which Zahra Yassine from MAP says will help raise awareness as the organisation provides medical aid and life-saving care.
Today, Gaels Against Genocide will be holding a parade in Belfast city centre. GAA figures including Peter Canavan have thrown their weight behind the protest which is expected to be attended by members of GAA clubs from across Ulster and beyond.
And tomorrow, as we reported this week, a ‘Cake Picnic for Palestine’ will be held at Trademarket on Dublin Road. Bakers from across Belfast have joined together to donate their services - and cakes - to raise funds to help a Palestinian family.
In a sentiment many will echo, Shonee McWilliams of the Pie Queen bakery says: “You just feel you have to do something, in whatever little way you can.”
The humanitarian disaster in Gaza continues to be met with an outpouring of grassroots support from people across the community who want to - who are compelled to - do something, anything, to help
“Who is prepared to put the plight of people and the dignity of every human person as the overriding priority in bringing this outrage to an end?” they asked.
We can but hope and pray that the courage needed to make peace takes hold before more lives and homes are lost.
