03 October 2024
Both in Gaza and more recently in southern Lebanon, hostilities have severely affected civilians. The violence has forced hundreds of thousands of people to abandon their homes, with the number of people killed or injured reaching thousands.
Hospitals are being pushed to their limits, with a difficult access to medical supplies and a constant influx of patients. The recent escalation hinders the delivery of aid, making an already complex crisis even more difficult to tackle.
In response to recent developments, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has intensified its efforts to provide humanitarian aid as quickly and effectively as possible to those most affected.
The organization is strengthening hospital capacities, replenishing essential medical supplies, and preparing to operate a trauma center at Rafik Hariri University Hospital. The ICRC also supports primary healthcare providers and pre-hospital emergency services, ensuring that vital medical care remains accessible despite the difficult circumstances.
The ICRC is also working to ensure the supply of water, food, and hygiene kits to vulnerable or displaced individuals and families.
The escalation of the conflict in Lebanon should not overshadow the suffering endured by civilians in Gaza. Access to the area remains particularly complicated, and the volume of humanitarian aid needed to restore the situation is immense, in an area where road and sanitary infrastructure is largely destroyed.
In line with its mission and principles, the Red Cross maintains constant dialogue with parties in conflict to promote respect for international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of civilians.
Copyright photos Lebanese Red Cross