The situation in Gaza is unbearable
The food shortage is becoming more and more severe in Gaza. People are hungry and forced to eat leaves and animal feed. If more emergency aid does not arrive soon, famine threatens families already living under horrific conditions, fleeing violence and death. The humanitarian needs in Gaza are extremely urgent.
The humanitarian needs in Gaza are growing
The Red Cross's ambulances and paramedics have provided emergency care to over 17,700 people in Gaza. Additionally, 12,000 people have received psychological first aid. Fourteen camps have been set up, providing shelter to over 28,000 people.
We have ensured that over 5,600 trucks of emergency aid have been able to enter Gaza.
– People lack food, electricity, and water. Hospital supplies are running out, and it is becoming increasingly difficult for healthcare services to function. We stand prepared to help even more, but safe routes must be guaranteed to reach those in need, says William Schomburg.
Here's how we are helping on the ground in Gaza:
- Thousands of volunteers are assisting in the lifesaving efforts.
- We provide first aid, operate ambulances, and ensure that injured people are taken to hospitals.
- We run hospitals.
- We assist people who need to be evacuated from their homes.
- We distribute food, clean water, and water purification tablets.
- Mattresses, blankets and hygiene kits from our supplies have been distributed to thousands of families
Civilians must never be attacked
We urge all parties to respect international humanitarian law.
- Aid workers on the ground in Gaza must be protected and not be targeted under any circumstances.
- We are deeply concerned about the call for civilians to leave their homes in northern Gaza.
- Our volunteers must be protected so that they can protect others. We will not abandon those who need the help the most.
- For us to be able to assist affected people, aid must be able to arrive safely. Humanitarian organizations must be granted access.
- The warring parties must ensure that civilians have shelter, food, medical care, water, the ability to maintain hygiene, and safety. If the parties cannot provide this, humanitarian aid must be allowed to reach those in need.
- We urge all parties to follow the international humanitarian law and protect civilians. These rules exist to protect humanity in the darkest of times. There is a desperate need for them to be followed today.
We help in both Palestine and Israel
The Red Cross is a neutral and impartial organisation. We help affected people, regardless of who they are and where they come from. During the recent conflict and escalating violence, we have assisted in both Palestine and Israel. In Israel, our colleagues have provided care and operated ambulances, among other services. We continue to provide humanitarian support to all those in need.