Conflict escalates in the Middle East
Civilians continue to pay the highest price of the conflict in Israel, Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon.
Last updated: 30 October 2024
Since the devastating attacks in Israel on 7 October 2023, and the escalation of conflict in Gaza, we have seen a surge in fighting in Lebanon, the West Bank and Yemen.
This has led to an increase in civilian casualties and thousands of people have fled their homes, some into Syria. Every day, the National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in the region continue to provide lifesaving support to those affected.
With the fighting intensifying in Lebanon and Israel, we are deeply concerned by the impact further escalation would have for people across the region. Increased violence is likely to cause more suffering and make the humanitarian crisis across the region, so much worse.
These painful events must be a call to action to prioritise the protection of civilian lives during armed conflict.
Gaza and the West Bank in numbers
- The death toll in Gaza is over 43,00. There have been over 730 fatalities in the West Bank.
- Over 101,000 people have been injured in Gaza and over 5,500 in the West Bank.
- 90% of Gaza’s population have been displaced from their homes, often more than once.
Israel in numbers
- The death toll in Israel is over 1,200, with more than 5,400 injured.
- Over 143,000 people have been evacuated from their homes.
Lebanon in numbers
- More than 2,650 people have been killed and over 12,000 have been injured.
- It is estimated that more than 1 million people have been displaced.
The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement response
Our colleagues at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) continue to urge the parties to the conflict to uphold international humanitarian law, and to take every possible measure to avoid civilian casualties and further harm. The ICRC has not yet had access to the hostages, which is a source of deep frustration and grave concern.
The Palestine Red Crescent Society ambulance crews, including paramedics, drivers, and first responders are also risking their lives every day to save others.
In Egypt, the Egyptian Red Crescent Society is facilitating all the aid delivered across the Rafah border.
The Lebanese Red Cross has deployed ambulances and emergency medical volunteers across Lebanon and is supporting in urban search and rescue and evacuation.
In Israel, the Magen David Adom is Israel's sole National Blood and Medical Emergency Service.
The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) has brought together 15 UK charities – including the British Red Cross – to raise funds for an effective, coordinated response for the next two weeks. Please donate so we can help more people.
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