This year we already have a bloody reminder of the importance of human rights.

Gaza is on the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe. Since 27 December nearly 700 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli air strikes, while rocket attacks launched by Palestinian armed groups have taken the lives of three Israelis. Last night 48 Palestinians, including three children, were killed seeking refuge in a school just outside Gaza City.

With the death toll set to rise, we are gravely concerned for the safety of innocent civilians amid the escalating conflict. There are no safe havens. There is nowhere to hide for these people.

Please send an email urging the UN Security Council to take decisive action to halt the violence

Today Israel bowed to international pressure and agreed to open up 'corridors' of humanitarian aid into Gaza, but this is simply not enough. Right now civilians are in desperate need of medicines, food, fuel and other necessities to alleviate their suffering.

Innocent lives are at stake - please send your email to end the violence and ensure civilians receive the help they need

Thank you for taking action at this vital time. Together we can help lift Gaza out of this crisis.

Claire Mallinson
National Director
Amnesty International Australia

PS: Since early November humanitarian workers and journalists have been barred from Gaza by the Israeli military. They are now needed more than ever to assess humanitarian needs and report on the situation, including abuses of international law. Your email will send a strong message that humanitarian workers must be allowed into Gaza.

Stop the bloodshed in Gaza and southern Israel