Six months of conflict in the Middle East: this is how it helps Belgian Red Cross-Flanders

Six months after the start of the Middle East conflict, Belgian Red Cross-Flanders continues to call for respect and compliance with International Humanitarian Law to protect the lives of civilians and humanitarian personnel, for a smoother and safer passage of more humanitarian aid to affected areas, and for the unconditional release of all hostages.

Thus, helping Belgian Red Cross-Flanders

Red Cross-Flanders has so far collected more than € 240,000 to support the relief efforts on the ground. That financial support goes to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which is active along both sides of the conflict and has been providing support to all sides from day one.

Specifically, the ICRC acted as a neutral intermediary in the transfer of the 109 Israeli hostages and more than 150 Palestinian prisoners. In addition, they employ 2 surgical teams at the European Gaza Hospital in Khan Younis who have already performed 1,625 surgeries since last November. They are also providing emergency medical supplies, sheltering IDPs, meeting the basic needs of the affected population and carrying out repairs to the water and electricity systems. Thanks to the ICRC, 1,392 family contacts were also restored.

Meanwhile, other National Red Cross Societies and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) are helping whenever possible. Here, the Palestinian Red Crescent is undoubtedly the most important actor. Since the beginning of the conflict, they have been providing first aid and medical emergency relief, helping internally displaced persons, distributing emergency relief supplies and providing psychosocial assistance in Gaza and the West Bank. In addition, they have set up 14 tent camps providing shelter to 5,100 families in Gaza. In total, they have already reached more than 274,000 people.

Warm call

Those wishing to support the victims in the Middle East can do so through the account number BE53 0000 0000 5353 stating "conflict Middle East" or online at rodekruis.be/conflict.