What is happening in Israel and Gaza?
On Saturday October 7, Islamist group Hamas launched an attack from the Gaza Strip on Israeli civilians. Israel has subsequently declared war. The weekend’s events are the latest chapter in a decades-long conflict, and are taking a terrible toll on the lives of residents; as of October 11, the death toll exceeds 2,100 people on both sides.
Where is the conflict happening in Israel?
The initial attack launched by Hamas began in the areas of southern Israel surrounding the Gaza Strip. Several towns were infiltrated by Hamas militants, but have reportedly since been reclaimed by Israeli forces. Israel’s retaliatory attack is concentrated on the Gaza Strip, which is controlled by Hamas but home to millions of civilians.
How can I help those affected by the conflict?
The following organisations are doing work to help and support victims on both sides of the conflict.
ALLMEP (the Alliance for Middle East Peace) is calling for support to help their Palestinian and Israeli member organisations on the ground. Donate to them here.
Direct Relief provides vulnerable communities all over the world with essential medical resources. You can help out here.
Doctors Without Borders is a charity that provides immediate medical support during humanitarian emergencies, and you can help them with their lifesaving work here.
International Medical Corps is an organisation that works with local health agencies. Donate to their cause here.
The International Red Cross has been present in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories since 1967. Donate here.
The International Rescue Committee is monitoring the needs of civilians and trying to ensure aid reaches those who need it. Donate here.
Magen David Adom is Israel’s national emergency medical service, and you can read more about donating here.
Palestine Children’s Relief Fund is providing children affected by this current conflict with medical support and basic necessities. You can donate here.
Save the Children is providing relief to affected children, and you can donate here.
The United Nations Works and Relief Agency has designated shelters to support those displaced by the Israel-Palestine conflict. You can donate here.
Are there any travel implications for tourists?
Yes: as soon as the conflict began at the weekend, governments and travel companies issued advice on travelling to Israel and Egypt.
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