15 May 2025 12:00am–11:59pm
Since the bombardment of Gaza resumed on 18 March thousands more Palestinians have been killed. Many more are suffering as a result of the blockade on all humanitarian aid that has been in place since the beginning of March. Plans to further expand the military assault on Gaza and displace most of the population yet again, will result in further death and destruction.
On 15 May UNISON branches will be supporting the TUC endorsed workplace day of action for an immediate and permanent ceasefire. Activists are encouraged to take part in actions to call on the UK Government to implement their manifesto pledge to recognise the State of Palestine as a contribution to a two-state solution, in addition to our demands for an immediate ceasefire, full access to humanitarian assistance, the safe release of hostages and an end to the occupation.
Over the last 19 months Gaza has been devastated. Over 52,400 Palestinians have been killed and more than 118,000 injured. Healthcare and other critical public services have been targeted and 92 percent of homes destroyed or damaged. The West Bank has also been severely affected, with thousands displaced, severe restrictions on freedom of movement and an increase in settler and military attacks.
The 15 May commemorates the 1948 Nakba (catastrophe), during which approximately 750,000 Palestinians were displaced from their homes to Gaza, the West Bank and the wider Middle East. Today there are approximately 5.9 million refugees.
On the day of action branches are encouraged to:
- Take part in a photo action calling on the UK Government to recognise the State of Palestine as a contribution to a two-state solution; https://www.tuc.org.uk/sites/default/files/Workplaces_for_Palestine_2025.jpg
- Write to your local MP to promote UNISON’s demands;
- Fundraise in support of the critical work of Medical Aid for Palestinians and the Red Cross;
- Hold a meeting with a speaker from the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC);
- Promote the PSC national demonstration on 17 May.
For more information see the UNISON Ceasefire Now guide.