When Hamas launched its wave of rocket attacks and stormed into Israel it led to the biggest escalation in violence we have seen in the region.
Thousands of Israelis have been killed, and many more injured, and civilians, including women and children, were forcibly taken, making it the deadliest attack in Israel in decades.
In Gaza, thousands have been killed and many are injured. Airstrikes have caused widespread destruction of homes, schools, healthcare facilities and telecommunication installations. Hospitals that are already at breaking point are overwhelmed by casualties while hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced.
We are grieved and deeply concerned at the violence in Israel and Gaza, our hearts go out to those Israeli families whose loved ones have been targeted in the appalling terrorist attacks but also to the innocent victims of retaliatory attacks, who have been caught in the crossfire. The devastating news and images shared and the suffering of all is almost incomprehensible.
If you have not seen the Archbishop of Canterbury's recent poignant message on this, please do have a read.
His prayer ‘Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee’ (Psalm 122) ' is never more important at this time.
If you are looking to help, we'd recommend the following three agencies that are operating locally in Gaza, providing immediate assistance.
Christian Aid's local partners stand ready to respond with medical relief and community-led initiatives such as food, shelter, sanitation and protection. They are actively exploring ways to support Israeli civilians who've been directly impacted by the violence.
Donations could make a huge difference to the conditions of those affected and can be made here.
Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP)
MAP's team on the ground is releasing their entire pre-positioned stock of essential drugs, disposables and essential healthcare supplies from our warehouses to hospitals treating those injured in Israel's aerial bombardment of Gaza.
More support will be needed as casualties are expected to continue to rise in the coming days, and MAP stands ready to respond.
Palestinians Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF)
PCRF is the primary humanitarian organization in Palestine, delivering crucial and life-saving medical relief and humanitarian aid where it is needed most. Access to essential resources like food, clean water, and healthcare is severely limited. Urgent action is needed. With your support, we can continue this vital work, ensuring that the over one million children of Gaza receive the urgent care they need and deserve.
Resources for Primary School ages
Our Education Team have created reflective resource materials that can be used in both a school and adapted for a church or even individual context. You can download the script here and the slides (with notes) here.