Gaza city: The intensification of military operations in Gaza City has forced the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to temporarily suspend operations at its Gaza City office and relocate staff to ICRC offices in southern Gaza to ensure staff safety and operational continuity.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the ICRC stressed in a statement that tens of thousands of people in Gaza City are facing harrowing humanitarian conditions and are in desperate need of more assistance. The statement highlighted the dire situation, noting that civilians are being killed, forcibly displaced, and made to endure severe conditions. First responders, including the Palestine Red Crescent Society and Civil Defence, have been working tirelessly to provide relief but face significant constraints in movement and access to the civilian population.
The ICRC affirmed its commitment to continue supporting civilians in Gaza City from its offices in Deir al-Balah and Rafah, which remain operational. Efforts include providing medical donations to the remaining health facilities in Gaza City and facilitating the movements of first responders. The Red Cross Field Hospital in Rafah is described as a critical resource for many wounded patients.
The ICRC noted its long-standing presence in Gaza City and its efforts to protect and support the most vulnerable people during intensified hostilities. The organization confirmed its intention to return as soon as conditions permit.
Over the past two weeks, the ICRC has supplied the few remaining hospitals and health-care centers in Gaza City with life-saving medical supplies amidst a surge of weapon-wounded patients. They have also supported baking facilities in displacement camps and provided water tanks, trucking services, and assistance in repairing water and wastewater networks alongside local service providers.
The statement emphasized the urgent need for a cessation of hostilities, urging protection for civilians under international humanitarian law. It called for the respect and protection of medical personnel and civil defence workers and stressed the necessity for the rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian assistance throughout the Gaza Strip.
