Israel and Occupied Palestinian Territory Appeal launched

The British Red Cross has launched an emergency fundraising appeal in response to the humanitarian crisis in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

Since Saturday, more than 1,200 people have reportedly been killed in Israel and Gaza, with hundreds more injured. There are concerning reports of hostages being taken, while the UN says more than 120,000 Gazans have been displaced from their homes.

Staff and volunteers from Magen David Adom (MDA), Palestine Red Crescent (PRCS) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have been working round the clock to respond to urgent needs, including treating casualties.

The continuing violence in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory is putting the lives of healthcare workers at risk, with at least one ambulance worker known to have been killed while providing help.

The ICRC has called for all parties to respect their legal obligations under international humanitarian law (IHL), including protecting civilians and healthcare workers at all times.

Mike Adamson, chief executive at the British Red Cross, said:

“The unfolding escalation of violence in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory is heart-breaking. There needs to be an urgent and long-term humanitarian response to help the communities that are living through this conflict.

“In keeping with our principles of neutrality, staff and volunteers have been working around the clock to respond to this crisis, including providing medical treatment for the injured. These efforts are being put at risk by the ongoing violence.

“With the casualties in their thousands, it is vital that healthcare workers and health facilities are protected so people can get the urgent care they need.”

To donate, please go to:

Online: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory Appeal 

Postal Donations: British Red Cross, ISRAEL AND THE OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY APPEAL, 44 Moorfields, London, EC2Y 9AL.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

About the British Red Cross For over 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. With millions of volunteers across 192 countries, the British Red Cross is part of an international humanitarian Movement that’s there for people before, during, and after a crisis. Together, we are the world’s emergency responders. www.redcross.org.uk