The devastating impact of this war on civilians cannot be overstated: During the attacks of October 7, 2023, 1,200 people were killed and up to 100 are still held captive; since the Israeli military response started, over 46,000 Palestinians have been killed, including 3 HI staff, while almost 110,000 people are injured - 70% of whom are women and children. Among the injured, thousands are suffering life-altering disabilities due to the relentless bombings and inadequate medical care, leaving many in urgent need of long-term treatment, rehabilitation, and support. Furthermore, an indeterminate number of Palestinians have been arrested, including protected medical personnel.
Families were forcibly displaced multiple times, and critical infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, are now reduced to ruins, littered with unexploded remnants of war. The consequences of war have resulted in a devastating humanitarian toll, leaving entire communities without access to essential services. Tragically, 8 infants died from the cold in the past 16 days, showing the harsh conditions displaced families face. The most vulnerable—children, the elderly, the injured, and people with disabilities—continue to bear the heaviest burden of this crisis.
In December 2024, an average of approximately 76 humanitarian aid trucks entered the Gaza Strip per day, an immense reduction from the pre-escalation average of 500 trucks per day. In January 2025, HI had 11 aid trucks that entered Gaza, after more than 6 months of delay. It is crucial that, with ceasefire, aid reaches those in need without delay or obstruction. We call for immediate and safe access for organizations to deliver food, medical supplies, rehabilitation services, and shelter to the millions affected, including allowing unrestricted entry for aid trucks to provide essential relief.
This ceasefire must not only end the violence temporarily; a lasting one is needed to pave the way for sustained efforts to rebuild lives and communities, with particular attention to the rights and needs of people with disabilities. Humanity & Inclusion stands ready to work alongside all stakeholders to provide relief and support, driven by compassion and a deep sense of humanity.
