Caritas Australia has launched an appeal to support displaced families in Gaza as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues.
After Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, killing innocent civilians and taking hostages, hundreds of military air strikes have been launched across the Gaza Strip as a form of retaliation by the Israeli Government.
The United Nations reports that Gaza’s entire population is being deprived of electricity, water, fuel supplies, food, and medicine. Ongoing bombardments and shelling have destroyed homes, hospitals and essential water and sanitation infrastructure with growing fears that Gaza will soon run out of drinkable water.
Hospitals are packed with injured people and running desperately low on fuel and basic supplies.
An estimated one million people have been displaced in Gaza with immediate food, shelter, health, and psychosocial needs. Even before these attacks, eight out of 10 people were reliant on international aid.
On Friday, the Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant church leaders in Jerusalem said of the conflict, “we call upon all parties to de-escalate this war in order to save innocent lives while still serving the cause of justice”.
Humanitarian aid access has been blocked to date, but it is hoped pathways will soon open. Once this happens humanitarian aid agencies will be challenged to support tens of thousands of people who have been in dire need for days.
Caritas Australia’s humanitarian emergencies lead Sally Thomas said: “The escalation of violence has only exacerbated needs for the people in Gaza and West Bank, who already live in dire conditions. We are working with our partners on the ground to provide comprehensive and critical support to those affected by this devastating conflict.”
Caritas Australia is supporting partner agencies to provide emergency cash, shelter, and psychosocial support.
Details: Caritas Gaza crisis appeal.
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Caritas Australia launches Gaza Appeal to support displaced families (Caritas Australia)
