Belgium: Formula One legend Lewis Hamilton has spoken out against the ongoing killing of children in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and stating, “We can no longer stay silent.” His remarks came as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen amid Israel’s months-long blockade and military assault.
Ahead of this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix, the seven-time world champion took to social media to share a UNICEF post highlighting the rising death toll among Palestinian children. The post noted that over 100 children were killed during the first week of July alone in intensified Israeli airstrikes on Gaza. “The killing of children has continued every day since. Ceasefire now,” the post read, which Hamilton reposted along with his own message: “We can no longer stay silent.”
The situation in Gaza has become increasingly dire. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, at least 122 Palestinians have died from hunger and malnutrition since the Israeli attacks began on October 7, 2023. Among them were 83 children. Just since Sunday, Israeli occupation forces have killed at least 19 Palestinians in fresh attacks on the enclave, following the killing of 71 others the previous day — including 42 individuals who were reportedly seeking aid. Meanwhile, five more Palestinians have died of starvation.
Adding to the crisis, Israel has seized the Freedom Flotilla’s Handala ship, detaining all 21 crew members. The vessel was attempting to break the Israeli-imposed siege on the Gaza Strip and deliver aid to those affected by the conflict.
Despite mounting international calls for a ceasefire, the Israeli military has continued its devastating offensive. The Palestinian death toll has now surpassed 59,600, with the majority of victims reported to be women and children.
Hamilton’s public statement marks a rare and bold intervention by a major global sports figure, amplifying growing concerns around the world over the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza.