ALT We are devastated to hear that close colleagues, Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) medics, have been killed while performing their lifesaving work in Deir al Balah, Gaza. This is unacceptable. We call on the parties to this conflict to respect their obligations and ensure humanitarian work can be carried out safely. Together with the PRCS, we mourn the loss of these lifesaving staff members. This ambulance team worked relentlessly in horrific conditions to reduce the suffering of the wounded and sick in Gaza over the last three months. We offer our sincere condolences to their family members. International humanitarian law is clear. Medical personnel should never lose their own lives while providing support to their community. We condemn any attack on healthcare workers. All parties to this conflict must respect the humanitarian mission of the PRCS and other first responders.

ALT Card with text Non-stop, brutal, targeted attacks on civilians are among the main features of this war. Our message is clear: these attacks must stop. Patrick Youssef, ICRC Regional Director Africa

ALT Civilians are crammed into small areas, taking refuge in owercrowded apartments, shelters, hospitals, and schools. Public health is rapidly deteriorating, also leading to poor sanitation. There is no electricity, no sanitation, and limited access to water, food, and healthcare. With no end in sight to the hostilities, a public health emergency is foreseeable and hence preventable.