Gaza Crisis: Latest

Over the past month, the long-running political conflict in Gaza has worsened with a catastrophic humanitarian crisis unfolding.

For those in other parts of the world, it can be upsetting to see the scale of suffering and frustrating to feel powerless to respond.

In Gaza, more than 2.2 million people remain trapped in the region, running out of food, water and electricity and at continued risk of air strikes.

So far, more than 11,000 people* have lost their lives in horrific conditions due to the continued escalation on the area which has destroyed homes, schools, hospitals and infrastructure. Many of those maimed and killed are children.

We also urge all donors to consider the following points to ensure that their charitable response has the best chance of reaching people in need, in the ongoing hostile and restricted conditions.

(UN OCHA 13.11.23)

When donating to emergency appeals, check:

• Is the charity registered? Do not give to personal bank accounts as this can place your donation and your own financial health at risk.

• Does the charity have a history of working in area? Those charities with established field offices, rescue teams and trusted partners are likely to be the only charities able to distribute any aid at the current time due to the severe blockades.

• What are  the most urgent needs? Prioritise the needs of vulnerable groups who are often those less likely to be able to flee. Pregnant women, newborn babies, the sick and disabled are particularly at risk. Immediate identified needs include search and rescue, shelter, food, clean water, fuel, electricity and medical care. Mental health needs continue to soar.

How can I be sure that my donation will get through the aid blockade?

The current blockade is preventing humanitarian assistance from reaching those caught in the conflict. Whilst many voices are calling on the global community to uphold international and humanitarian laws, established aid agencies on the ground are delivering aid from emergency reserves.

These reserves will run out shortly and are insufficient for the scale of nee. It is therefore essential that donors continue to give funds to ensure that when blockades are lifted, safe passage of emergency aid can be delivered immediately.

By donating to registered emergency appeals, you can ensure that a supply chain of aid is ready to be deployed through safe passage as soon as possible.

Do not be deterred from donating as the scale of need is immense.

The priority is to protect lives and restore human rights to the people in the area.

The following MCF members are working on the ground directly or through trusted official channels:

Original publication 18/10/23. Last update 16/11/23.