President Obama has recently promised to exert every effort to support the work of Israelis and Palestinians who seek peace and reconciliation, an important step toward reviving peace efforts.

But as diplomatic efforts move forward we cannot ignore the urgent humanitarian crisis that continues in Gaza, where 90% of the population depends on food aid for survival.

The international community needs to invest urgently in repairing health services to prevent the spread of debilitating disease, and to provide life-sustaining food and supplies.  But it cannot stop there.

We also need to tend to the invisible wounds from the recent violence in Gaza that will only fester if not treated.  This is particularly the case among Gaza's children - the most vulnerable and impressionable segment of the Gaza's 1.5 million-strong population.  They are the building blocks of the future, and we need to rebuild schools and after-school programs to get children off the streets and into a safe, well-structured learning environment.

Only through these dual efforts - by rebuilding health and infrastructure and reinvesting in schools and Gaza's youth - can we build a path to peace.

Call on the international community to commit to rebuilding Gaza and ensure its children be able to face their uncertain future with dignity, good health and emotional well-being.