Embrace Partner Updates

LATEST UPDATES 22 September

Partners forced to close medical points in northern Gaza because of intensifying IDF assault

Our Partner Caritas Jerusalem have had to close all their medical points in northern Gaza because it has become too dangerous to continue. They sent us this update:

“Israeli forces have intensified military operations in northern Gaza over the past week, creating grave risks for our staff. For their safety, we have suspended operations at five of our ten medical points, including our main Medical Center in Al-Shatei’ Refugee Camp. All northern facilities are closed until further notice. Our teams remain active in the south, where displaced families are gathering, and continue to deliver urgent, lifesaving healthcare through five medical points.”

Throughout this conflict, Caritas Jerusalem have only closed their medical points a handful of times. To close all their points in northern Gaza shows the horrific level of violence and destruction now unfolding there and its apparent indiscriminate nature.

Embrace the Middle East’s statement in response to UK Government’s Recognition of a state of Palestine:

“The UK Government’s recognition of a Palestinian state is long overdue. For decades, the Palestinian people have been denied their basic rights to freedom, dignity, and self-determination. Recognition alone, however, will mean little without further urgent and concrete action.

“Our partners across Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem continue to live and serve in the midst of devastation, oppression, and denial of fundamental rights.  State recognition alone, without being followed by concrete actions, does not change the day-to-day reality that they are facing. True change requires an immediate end to the war in Gaza and an end to the illegal occupation of the West Bank. Anything less condemns millions of Palestinians to continued suffering and undermines the very prospects of peace that recognition is meant to affirm.

“The UK Government must follow through with decisive actions to ensure a just and peaceful future for Palestinians and Israelis. The UK Government must keep pushing Israel to ensure a ceasefire in Gaza and unfettered humanitarian aid. The UK Government must also take action against the protracted illegal occupation of the West Bank by banning investment in and trading with settlements and publish its overdue response to the ICJ Advisory Opinion of 19 July 2024.”

16 September

Update from Gaza as Israeli forces begin major assault on Gaza City

With the situation in Gaza City becoming increasingly dangerous for civilians due to the latest Israeli military assault, we’ve had updates from our partners on the ground there. They tell us that many citizens are leaving what shelter they have and fleeing – but that there is fear that, even if they make it south, they will find no safety there either.

The team at the Jerusalem Princess Basma Centre (JPBC) tell us that their disability unit at Al Ahli Hospital is currently still open:

“Yesterday our multi-disicplinary team together treated 15 children with chronic conditions and post-acute injuries and delivered 34 interventions…The team are continually weighing up the situation there on the ground, staying informed as they can and endeavouring to make impossible decisions about what and where is most safe.”

Many of the team say that their work is something that gives them hope and strength. Al Zahraa, the Occupational Therapist at the unit, said: “My work with these children moves my focus away from the relentless daily challenges of war, towards building hope and solidarity, united with the people we serve.”   

The bravery, compassion and resilience of the Jerusalem Princess Basma staff, and all our partners in Gaza is incredible, but the situation unfolding around them is catastrophic. Please keep them and all they serve in your prayers.

15 September

Embrace issues warning that Israel’s assault on Gaza City amounts to a death sentence

Embrace the Middle East is one of 45 humanitarian and civil society organizations who have issued a joint statement warning that Israel’s assault on Gaza City amounts to a death sentence and calling on unrestricted access for aid and humanitarian operations:

“Intensified Israeli military attacks on Gaza City and forced displacement orders for the entire city are leaving families with an impossible dilemma: flee and risk death on the road and in overcrowded displacement areas, or stay and face relentless bombardment in their shelters. Starvation and siege await them regardless…” READ STATEMENT IN FULL

10 September

Another medical centre damaged in Gaza

Embrace joins our partner Caritas Jerusalem in condemning an attack the Polio and Artificial Limb Centre in Gaza. Caritas Jerusalem, who work closely with the centre, reported that it sustained severed damage in the attack on Sunday:

“At the time of the strike, the Centre was fully operating, with around 100 people inside. All of them managed to flee the building in time and survived. The attack destroyed parts of the Center’s infrastructure, equipment, and service rooms: windows were blown out, solar panels were torn off, and essential equipment was scattered and damaged.”

Staff have subsequently managed to repair and reopen the centre, which provides vital humanitarian services for amputees and patients with paralysis. Caritas Jerusalem added:

“We urgently call on the international community to ensure the protection of such institutions and aid workers to guarantee the continuation of essential services to those in greatest need.”

9 September

Embrace statement in response to Gaza City evacuation order

“Embrace the Middle East is deeply concerned by the intensifying attacks on Gaza City and the latest evacuation orders. The continued escalation puts an already devastated civilian population under unbearable strain and further endangers the lives and work of our local partners, who continue to provide healthcare, mental health support and emergency aid despite the risks that they face.

The people of Gaza need increased humanitarian aid and protection, not more displacement and destruction. We continue to call for both sides to work for an immediate ceasefire, release of the hostages and unfettered access of humanitarian aid. This must stop now and we call on the UK government and the international community to take immediate action.”

8 September

Since the beginning of the year, Caritas Jerusalem’s team of medics in Gaza have given over 21,000 medical consultations, primarily providing treatment for chronic diseases, maternity care, and medical support for old-age citizens.

With Embrace support they have also been providing cash assistance to help families cover their basic needs, as well as providing therapy sessions to help address trauma, stress and grief. They told us:

“Despite extreme conditions, including destruction, displacement, and limited resources, Caritas staff operated with resilience and dedication. The collapse of the referral system and recurring medicine stockouts made managing routine cases more difficult. Still, medical teams remained committed to upholding health services under pressure.”

3 September

Our partner Caritas Jerusalem currently have 125 staff in Gaza, working amid increasingly challenging conditions to provide healthcare, psychological treatment and food assistance to Gaza’s civilians. This week they told us:

“Caritas Jerusalem staff are currently operating under extremely challenging conditions in Gaza, ongoing bombardments and repeated displacement due to military operations…. In the past week, Israeli forces have intensified bombardments and ground operations across Gaza, while Palestinian armed groups continued rocket fire and clashes…food aid in Gaza remains critically insufficient, despite some increase.”

Israeli forces have announced they are planning a major offensive on Gaza City and in recent weeks have been issuing evacuation orders to large parts of the city, including an area where several of Caritas' staff have been sheltering. Their staff report that:

“The situation on the ground remains chaotic and dangerous. While some civilians have managed to move southward, many have remained in place. This is largely due to the absence of safe corridors, lack of shelter in the south, and concerns about moving into areas that have also been targeted.”

Please keep the staff of Caritas and all our partners in Gaza in your prayers as the situation they face becomes ever more perilous.

2 September

19 August

On Sunday, our partner, Al Ahli Hospital, suffered multiple attacks from local outlaw bands and from an IDF drone attack. We join with the Diocese of Jerusalem in condemning these attacks and calling for all parties to respect the protection granted to hospitals under International Humanitarian Law.

The devastation of the war and the resulting humanitarian crisis has fueled the rise of armed groups within Gaza, increasing the dangers faced by our partners on a day to day basis. We pray for the safety and protection of their staff as they continue to courageously serve all of those who are in need of care. Below is a statement from the Diocese of Jerusalem in response to the attacks:

18 August

We are deeply saddened by the news that an Israeli airstrike struck the courtyard of Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza City during the early hours of Sunday 17 August, resulting in the tragic loss of lives of seven people.

Sawsan Aranki-Batato from the Diocese of Jerusalem said: “We are so saddened and still shocked … No injuries or fatalities have been reported among our staff or patients. Our medical team provided life-saving treatment to those wounded in the attack, who remain admitted to our inpatient department and under our care at the hospital.”

14 August

With Israeli authorities threatening to ban major aid organisations as starvation deepens in Gaza, Embrace has joined 100+ other global organisations in calling for an end to Israel’s weaponisation of aid.

13 August

12 August

Meet the team serving children in Gaza against all the odds

“Kinan is now able to walk and even climb stairs, but we, along with him, still face many challenges. Limited resources, such as access to proper nutrition and basic supplies like diapers, make daily life harder for us. Moreover, Kinan receives therapy at the [Princess Basma] Centre, then we go back to live in a tent, which is not helping him to walk properly” - Kinan’s father, Gaza

The Jerusalem Princess Basma Centre satellite unit, based at Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza City and supported by Embrace, is continuing to provide rehabilitation services for children like Kinan with chronic conditions and post-trauma injuries. In our latest blog, you can read about the huge challenges they face and hear directly from two of their eight staff members about their motivations and dreams.

29 July

Christian village of Taybeh attacked again

We are distressed by news that settlers have once again targeted the Christian village of Taybeh in the West Bank, causing damage and intimidation. We share the deep concerns of The Patriarchs and Heads of Local Churches in Jerusalem, who have issued a statement condemning the attack:

“We, the Patriarchs and Heads of Churches in Jerusalem, express our profound concern and unwavering condemnation following yet another violent assault that targeted the West Bank Christian town of Taybeh. Several vehicles were set ablaze, and hateful graffiti was sprayed—an unambiguous act of intimidation directed at a peaceful and faithful community rooted in the land of Christ. It forms part of an alarming pattern of settler violence against West Bank communities, including their homes, sacred spaces, and ways of life…

“We are gravely troubled by the prevailing climate of impunity, which undermines the rule of law and jeopardizes peaceful coexistence in the land of the Resurrection. The lack of accountability not only threatens Christian communities but also weakens the moral and legal foundations that uphold peace and justice for all…” Read statement in full

25 July

Partner staff in Gaza are starving

The food situation now facing our partners, the whole Christian community, and all in Gaza, is beyond critical - it is catastrophic. We have received this devasting update from our partner Caritas Jerusalem:

“Our colleagues in Gaza are no different from the rest of the civilian population. They are being starved under siege conditions, surviving on little more than salt, water, and tea.

“Yesterday, Dr Jihad, our medical consultant in Gaza, witnessed a deeply distressing scene: an injured child awaiting surgery was crying uncontrollably. The doctors initially believed he was scared — but it became clear he was crying out of hunger.

“In a heart-breaking reflection shared by one of our colleagues in Gaza, they remarked with bitter irony: ‘Those who died at the beginning of the war are, in a way, the lucky ones. At least they were spared the slow, humiliating death by hunger that we are now left to endure.’

“We urgently appeal to President Trump to intervene and help bring an end to this brutal war,” said Anton Asfar, Secretary General of Caritas Jerusalem. “We plead for the immediate opening of humanitarian corridors, so we can reach thousands of innocent lives — among them our own colleagues in Gaza — before it’s too late.”

Medical centre damaged

These shocking images were sent to us by our partner Caritas Jerusalem, showing the damage inflicted on their medical centre in central Gaza. The staff had evacuated the clinic following an evacuation order from the Israeli forces last week. They told us:

“Bombing in the area escalated rapidly. Soon after, buildings surrounding the medical point were flattened, and the centre itself sustained structural damage. According to our staff, Israeli tanks and bulldozers razed the entire vicinity, including trees, buildings, and all surrounding infrastructure.”

24 July

Embrace joins the call warning of mass starvation in Gaza

Over 100 humanitarian and aid agencies yesterday issued a joint warning that mass starvation is spreading across Gaza and calling on governments worldwide to take urgent action. Embrace the Middle East is a signatory on that statement. The situation now facing our partners, the whole Christian community, and all in Gaza, is beyond critical - it is catastrophic: Read the statement

21 July

We mourn the deaths of our sisters and brothers in the strike on the Holy Family Church, Gaza

We are heartbroken that three of our Christian family are now confirmed to have died from injuries they received in the strike that hit the Holy Family church in Gaza on 17 July. Two are still in hospital, having sustained critical injuries. One of those who died, Fomiyeh Ayyad, was the aunt of the director of the new Princess Basma Centre disability unit at Al-Ahli Arab Hospital - established last year with the help of Embrace funds.

The Israeli authorities have said the strike was a mistake, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has apologised, saying: "Israel deeply regrets that a stray ammunition hit Gaza's Holy Family Church." But this does not make the losses any easier to bear.

Nor does this change the fact that far too many innocent civilians have been killed in the conflict so far. Israel is failing in its duty to protect non-combatants. Our partner the Pontifical Mission for Palestine said:

"When unarmed civilians seeking refuge in a holy site are killed, it suggests a broader strategy to render Gaza uninhabitable, a violation of international law and a betrayal of humanity." 

20 July

Latest pictures from Holy Family Church, Gaza

Our partner Caritas Jerusalem have shared these shocking images from the aftermath of the strike on the Holy Family Church compound in Gaza. Caritas have staff sheltering in and working from the church. Some of those killed and injured had been sitting in a shelter just outside the church, from which Caritas have been providing psychosocial support.

17 July

A further death confirmed following Holy Family Church shelling in Gaza

The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem have issued a statement confirming that a third person has now died as a result of a shell hitting the Holy Family Church compound early this morning, and nine others have been injured. The statement also condemn the incident:

“The Latin Patriarchate strongly condemns this tragedy and this targeting of innocent civilians and of a sacred place. However, this tragedy is not greater or more terrible than the many others that have befallen Gaza. Many other innocent civilians have also been harmed, displaced and killed. Death, suffering and destruction are everywhere.

The time has come for leaders to raise their voices and to do all what is necessary in order to stop this tragedy which is humanly and morally, unjustified”… READ THE STATEMENT IN FULL

Update on Holy Family Church shelling - two confirmed dead

It is with great sadness that we pass on confirmation from our partner Caritas Jerusalem that two members of the Christian community in Gaza - Mr Saad Salameh (aged 60) and Mrs Fumayya Ayyad (84) - have died from injuries they sustained in this morning’s strike on the Holy Family Church in Gaza City. Caritas told us:

“Mr. Salameh, the janitor of the parish, was in the yard at the time of the explosion. Mrs. Ayyad was sitting inside a Caritas psychosocial support tent when the blast sent shrapnel and debris into the area. Both were critically wounded and transported to hospital, but due to the severe lack of medical resources and blood units in Gaza, they tragically passed away.

Their deaths are a painful reminder of the impossible conditions faced by civilians and medical personnel under siege. Our colleagues on the ground are in shock and mourning, having witnessed yet another senseless loss of innocent life.

We once again call on the international community to act urgently to protect civilians, places of worship, and humanitarian spaces, and to ensure that people in Gaza have access to the most basic right: the chance to survive.

May Saad and Fumayya rest in peace. We carry their memory with us.”

Holy Family Church, Gaza, hit by shelling - injuries and damage reported

We are deeply sad to report that the Holy Family Church in Gaza was hit by a shell this morning, causing injuries and damage. Details are still being confirmed. We ask for your urgent prayers for the situation.

Our partner Caritas Jerusalem have informed us that there has been intense shelling and military operations in the area around the church in recent days, and sent us this update of what happened this morning:

“This morning at approximately 10:10 a.m., the Holy Family Church in Gaza—a sanctuary for displaced civilians—was struck by a shell.

The explosion occurred near the cross on the church roof, scattering shrapnel and debris across the yard. At the time, some individuals were outside the main building, including two elderly women who were sitting inside our Caritas psychosocial support tent. Both were severely wounded and were transported by ambulance to Al-Ahli Hospital after a 15-minute delay.

Three young people who had been standing at the entrance of the church were also badly injured and were rushed to the hospital using private vehicles due to the urgency of the situation. Several others sustained minor injuries, including cuts that required stitches…

Caritas Jerusalem urgently calls on all parties to respect and protect places of worship and humanitarian shelter. Striking or endangering civilians seeking refuge is a grave violation of international humanitarian law and a direct assault on human dignity.”

15 July

Settler attacks on the Christian village of Taybeh, West Bank

The Patriarchs and Heads of Churches yesterday released a statement in response to the increasing settler attacks on the village of Taybeh in the West Bank. Taybeh is the last remaining all-Christian village in the West Bank.

“We, the Council of Patriarchs and Heads of Churches of Jerusalem, are here today in Taybeh in solidarity with the local community following an intensifying trend of systemic and targeted attacks against them and their presence. We ask for the prayers, attention, and action of the world, particularly that of Christians globally.

On Monday, 7 July 2025, radical Israelis from nearby settlements intentionally set fire near the town’s cemetery and the Church of Saint George, which dates back to the 5th century. Taybeh is the last remaining all-Christian town in the West Bank. These actions are a direct and intentional threat to our local community first and foremost, but also to the historic and religious heritage of our ancestors and holy sites.”… READ THE STATEMENT IN FULL

14 July

Al Ahli Hospital Doctor Killed in Gaza

Today we are mourning the death of Dr Ahmad Attallah Qandil, one of Gaza’s most experienced surgeons and part of the medical team at our partner Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza City. Dr Ahmad was killed yesterday by Israeli forces as he was returning home from a surgical shift at the hospital.

The hospital’s director, Suhaila Tarazi, said: ‘Dr Ahmad was not only a colleague but a true humanitarian – dedicated, courageous, and selfless in his service to others. His loss is not only a wound to those who knew and loved him, but also the entire medical and human community he served with such integrity and compassion.’

Israeli military attacks on hospitals and the targeting of healthcare workers has been, and continues to be, shameful. We call once again for the protection of medical staff and institutions, and for international leaders to push for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of life. 

25 June

An update from Gaza

Despite the immensely difficult situation in Gaza, the team at the satellite unit of the Jerusalem Princess Basma Centre (JPBC) there continue to treat and support children with disabilities - many are those who have trauma-related disabilities as a result of the war. The JPBC told us, “our staff of eight are working at full capacity. In the first 5 months of 2025, our team there admitted 595 children to our unit.” Ismail, one of their physiotherapists in Gaza, said:

“When I see a child walk or even smile again after a therapy session, I feel like I am helping to restore a part of their humanity that was taken away. My message to the world is that our children are not just numbers in the news, they are living souls who deserve to live with dignity and be given the chance to grow, learn and dream like other children around the world."

An update from Israel

Our partner Aviv Ministry supports those struggling with drug addiction and those living rough on the streets in Israel. Last week, safety fears because of the Iranian airstrikes caused them to temporarily close their centre in Tel Aviv (a place where people come for hot meals and medical support), but this did not stop their wider work. They sent us this video:

23 June

An update from Jerusalem

Our partner the Jerusalem Princess Basma Centre, which provides disability services for children in the West Bank, tell us that the situation in Jerusalem, and across the West Bank, is still difficult, but they have so far been able to continue to keep their centre open. They sent us this update:

“Although, this last weekend we have witnessed a deteriorating situation with daily alerts and sirens sounding out throughout our communities in Jerusalem and beyond, ‘essential services’ are permitted to work. And so, we continue to serve an increasing number of children with disabilities and their families here, grateful to our dedicated staff who are tireless in their support.”

17 June

An update from our partners in Israel

We have been in touch with our friends and partners in Tel Aviv, Nazareth and Acre. We are thankful that, so far, all our safe, but the strikes have affected their ability to continue some of their projects. Our partner Aviv Ministry, which provides hot meals and healthcare support to those living rough on the streets of Tel Aviv, sent us this message:

“Thank you so much to everyone who has been praying for us and for Israel during these very difficult days! We truly feel your love and support. By God’s grace, we are safe – although the stress and lack of sleep are definitely taking a toll.

After much thought and prayer, we made the difficult decision to temporarily close our Aviv Center. This was not an easy step, but … these attacks are often directed specifically at Tel Aviv, where our soup kitchen is located, since it is one of the most densely populated area in the Land, so that missiles could cause the greatest number of casualties. Aviv Center does not even have a bomb shelter, so for the safety of our volunteers and visitors, we are pausing operations in it for now. Thankfully, all our other projects are continuing with minimal disruption.”

16 June

Israel-Iran conflict: An update from our Palestinian partners

Our partners tell us that the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran means that a lockdown is now in place in the West Bank, with the occupying Israeli forces severely restricting movement between towns and villages. No direct strikes have yet hit the West Bank, but missile debris has landed near Nablus and other southern areas, causing alarm and fears for the safety of civilians there.

On Friday, safety concerns meant Caritas Jerusalem halted their operations while they assessed and adapted to the new situation but they have since resumed their healthcare and community services. They tell us:

“The operating environment remains dangerous and unpredictable … While diplomatic solutions remain elusive, Caritas Jerusalem’s efforts continue to provide a lifeline to thousands in need - offering medical care, food, and dignity amid uncertainty and fear.”

Our partner the Jerusalem Princess Basma Centre, which provides disability services for children in the West Bank, also tell us that, despite the rising challenges, they have so far been able to keep services running:

“You will be seeing and hearing through your newsfeeds about the new and formidable challenges that we are all facing here… Today, in Jerusalem, our centre is fully open. Although our West Bank staff have had long journeys to work, with their special medical permission they can still access Jerusalem at a time when many Palestinians cannot. More remarkably, this week a number of families from the West Bank who were referred through our Outreach Program, have been able to reach us to enrol on our residential Child Rehabilitation and Mother and Family Empowerment Program.

At this time of great uncertainty and fear across these lands, the staff of the Jerusalem Princess Basma Centre want to thank you and all our friends in the international community for your deep concern and support.”

13 June

As violence escalates between Israel and Iran, please join us in prayer for peace in the Middle East. We pray for an end to the bloodshed. We pray for compassion, mercy and restraint.

6 JUNE

Al Kafaat’s Disability Centre damaged once again in Israeli airstrike

We are deeply saddened to report that the buildings of our partner Al Kafaat suffered more damage in the Israeli airstrikes on Beirut. Their Village Campus, which had held various disability services, including residential care, was not occupied because of the extensive damage it had already suffered in strikes at the autumn of 2024. Since last autumn Al Kafaat have continued to provide their disability services through their other sites. They sent us this update this morning:

“They say lightning never strikes twice in the same place. It struck three times in October 2024, and a fourth time last night. On the eve of Eid, a holiday celebrated by all Lebanese, and especially by the Muslim community, the neighborhood where the Al-Kafaat Foundation's two key rehabilitation centres are located (the Village Campus and the Lily Shwayri Centre) was bombarded by the Israeli air force. The Village Campus was particularly hard hit, once again. We managed to evacuate the Campus caretaker and his family at the last minute. Maintaining hope in such conditions feels like a challenge.”

5 JUNE

IDF kill people in Al Ahli Hospital Compound

We are heartbroken to hear that this morning, the Israeli Defence Forces targetted people in the compound of our partner Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza City. Five people have been killed and 30 injured, including hospital staff. The Diocese of Jerusalem, who run the hospital, have issued this statement:

30 MAY

Caritas reopens clinic in Gaza City 

Embrace supports Caritas Jerusalem’s emergency cash-assistance programme in Gaza – a lifeline for families struggling to get basics such as food and shelter. The team also provide vital medical services. The ceasefire in January meant displaced staff were able to return to Gaza City. Since then, they have been repairing their damaged medical centre there. Earlier this month, despite the continuing deteriorating humanitarian situation, they were able to get the clinic reopened!

27 MAY

An update on Gaza’s Christian community

Our partner, the Pontifical Mission, sent us the following news about the Christian community in Gaza:

“As of May 2025, many [members of Gaza’s Christian community] have sought refuge in other parts of Gaza or attempted to migrate to other countries, though various obstacles have made it hard to leave.

St Porphyrius Church: Approximately 150 people are currently sheltering at St Porphyrius Church. Once a refuge for around 90 families, the church now hosts only about 60, as overcrowding and the lack of essential supplies have forced some to return to their partially damaged homes. Space is limited and food aid is scarce – distributions occur irregularly and in very small quantities. Bread production has halted entirely due to the complete absence of flour in local markets, and communal meals are no longer possible, leaving individuals to prepare food under difficult conditions.

Despite these challenges, the church continues to provide critical support to both those sheltering within and to vulnerable families in the surrounding area. For children, small-scale recreational activities offer a brief respite from the ongoing trauma, though these efforts are constrained by the severe shortage of resources.

Holy Family Church: The situation at Holy Family Church is equally dire. Approximately 140 families – around 400 people – are currently living within its walls. Over 100 individuals have chosen to return to their partially damaged homes due to severe overcrowding and a shortage of essential supplies. Humanitarian aid is only distributed twice a month, and even then, it is in very limited amounts. Despite these challenges, the church remains committed to supporting the community. It provides vital psychosocial support to children through structured programmes and has set up a small school and kindergarten to ensure some continuity in education during this crisis.”

23 MAY

An update from Al Ahli Hospital, Gaza

A shelter has been erected in the grounds of Al Ahli Hospital to replace the outpatient building destroyed in the Israeli airstrike on Palm Sunday. It will allow the hospital to treat more cases and injuries. The hospital is still receiving hundreds of admissions and performing around 24 surgeries a day.

19 MAY

Airstrikes hit near medical points in Gaza

Today we received the following update from our partner Caritas Jerusalem:

“Caritas Jerusalem confirms that two airstrikes struck areas near our medical points in Al-Birkeh and Abu Oureif in Deir Al Balah, Gaza, late last Saturday. These locations are part of our ongoing efforts to provide primary health care support to communities in urgent need. Fortunately, the airstrikes occurred at night, and no members of our medical team or civilians were harmed.

“We are now reassessing the positioning of our medical points to ensure they remain outside high-risk zones. While our commitment to providing life-saving care in Gaza remains unwavering, we are taking additional precautions to safeguard our staff and beneficiaries.”

16 MAY

15 MAY

An Update from Al Ahli Hospital, Gaza

Since the airstrike on Al Ahli Hospital on Palm Sunday, the staff there have been working to repair the damage and get the hospital fully open once again. Currently, the ICU and operating theatre are functional and the hospital is able to admit and treat in-patients. However, out-patient treatment is limited as the strike cause extensive damage to the out-patient clinic (along with the emergency department and laboratories). The repairs are complicated due to the lack of available construction materials (no materials are allowed into Gaza because of Israel’s aid blockade). They are recycling what they can from the rubble, but moving it is a challenge without heavy equipment.

7 MAY

Embrace’s CEO, Jamie Eyre, and Director of Programmes, Partnerships and Advocacy, Dr Ruth Valerio, have been in the West Bank this week, visiting our partners there and hearing updates on what’s happening in Gaza. Yesterday, Ruth spoke to UCB Radio about what they have witnessed and about Israel’s newly announced plans for Gaza. Listen to her interview below:

3 MAY

This week we heard first-hand from our partners working in Gaza that people are on the brink of starvation and water and medicines are running out. After two months of Israel’s blockade of Gaza - preventing the entry of all aid, food, fuel and medicines – we at Embrace the Middle East echo the statement from the UN Office of the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. We urgently call on the international community to respond and ensure Israel lifts the blockade now and allows access to goods. 

17 April

An Easter message from our Palestinian partners

Today our partner DSPR (Department of Service to Palestinian Refugees), whose work in Gaza and the West Bank we’ve been supporting throughout this current conflict, sent us this Easter message:

“As we mark this sacred Easter season, we are reminded of the profound message at the heart of the resurrection: that even in the shadow of the cross, life triumphs over death, hope rises through despair and love endures beyond all suffering…Amidst grief, displacement, and fear, the message of the risen Christ becomes even more powerful, a light that refuses to be overcome by darkness.

As a Christian ecumenical organisation working in Gaza, we have witnessed both the pain and the extraordinary resilience of those who continue to cling to faith, compassion, and hope. We honour their courage, and we remain committed to standing with them, bringing practical support, spiritual encouragement, and the reassurance that they are not forgotten.

We are deeply grateful for you our partners for the genuine partnership, prayers and the continuous solidarity and support. May this Easter renew our shared mission to be instruments of peace and healing in a broken world...”

16 April

WHO video of damage to Al Ahli Hospital

Staff from the World Health Organisation (WHO) visited our partner Al Ahli Hospital, Gaza, following Israel’s Palm Sunday airstrikes to assess the damage. They took this video:

14 April

Updates from our partners in Gaza, following Israeli airstrike on Al Ahli Hospital

Our partner the Princess Basma Centre have confirmed that thankfully all their staff at Al Ahli Hospital are safe and that (unlike other parts of the hospital) their disability unit there was only slightly damaged in the strikes. They are hopefully of being able to reopen it soon:

‘Today our team are fixing, cleaning and preparing the unit once again to receive patients, so the work, needs and challenges go on.' 

Debris from yesterday’s airstrike reached as far as St Porphyrius Church, where the Christian community still sheltering there were preparing for their Palm Sunday service. They have ask for our prayers, saying:

‘During these special moments in the history of the Palestinian People, and these holy days of prayer during the Holy Week celebrated by all the Christian denominations together, we pray for mercy, we pray for peace, we pray for the resurrection of the human conscience, so that this savagery may come to an end before we forget what it really means to be human beings and the term “mercy” and “compassion” become empty words.’

13 April

Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza bombed by Israel

This Palm Sunday, we are devastated at the news of the bombing of Al Ahli hospital. Al Ahli is an Embrace partner and one of Gaza City’s last functioning hospitals. We join the Diocese of Jerusalem in condemning this attack, calling for an urgent end to the war and the protection of all medical & faith-based institutions.

This morning, our team contacted the Medical Director at Al Ahli Hospital to share our support and prayers. This was his message of thanks for safety of the staff and patients and a prayer for peace:

Good morning from Gaza.
We are sorry for the hospital attacks early morning of the Palm Sunday. Our Lord was very great  keeping all  of our patients and employees safe.
Praying for ceasefire, and peace for all.
God  bless 🙏

Please join with us in praying with him:

“Out of the depths have I cried unto you. O Lord hear my voice.”

Loving God, you call us to mourn with those who mourn and weep with those who weep.

As we stand with our friends at the Al Ahli Hospital, hear our prayers for an end to this senseless violence. Give us the courage and the will to speak up for the defenceless. Remind us that every human being is made in your image.

We pray for those with the power to stop this madness. Give them the vision to imagine new possibilities, where hardened hearts are opened to goodness, love and grace.

We pray for the team at Al Ahli, Archbishop Hosam, and the Diocese of Jerusalem. Surround them with your love, give them your strength and fill them with your wisdom.

We ask all this in the name of the one who suffered, died and rose again.

Amen

Statement from the Diocese of Jerusalem in response to Israel’s bombing of Al Ahli Hospital

“The Diocese of Jerusalem condemns in the strongest terms today’s missile attacks on the Ahli Arab Hospital, an institution run by the Anglican Church in Jerusalem. The twin strikes demolished the two-storey Genetic Laboratory and damaged the Pharmacy and the Emergency Department buildings. It also resulted in other collateral damage to the surrounding buildings, including the church building of St. Philip’s.

“A mere twenty minutes prior to the attack, the Israeli army ordered all patients, employees, and displaced people to immediately evacuate the hospital premises prior to its bombing. We thank God that there were no injuries or deaths as a result of the bombing. However, one child who previously suffered a head-injury tragically died as a result of the rushed evacuation process.

“The Diocese of Jerusalem is appalled at the bombing of the hospital now for the fifth time since the beginning of the war in 2023 — and this time on the morning of Palm Sunday and the beginning of Holy Week. We call upon all governments and people of goodwill to intervene to stop all kinds of attacks on medical and humanitarian institutions. We pray and call for the end of this horrific war and the suffering of so many.”

4 APRIL

An Update from Gaza

Our partner Caritas Jerusalem provide primary healthcare and mental health support in Gaza. During the ceasefire, their staff (numbering over 100) were able to expand services into areas they had been unable to access during the fighting and they now have 10 medical points across the Gaza strip. As most of the hospitals remain either out of action or only functioning at very limited capacity, these medical points are providing a vital lifeline.

However, the renewed airstrikes and blockade imposed by Israel has caused the situation to rapidly deteriorate again. At times, Caritas Jerusalem have been forced to pause their work for fears over staff safety and there are shortages of vital supplies. As Israel continues to block aid from entering the country it is having catastrophic consequences on a population already living in the worst of situations. 

More land confiscations and travel restrictions in the West Bank

Today we received this update from our partner Anar, based in Bethlehem, which runs a range of projects supporting Palestinian children and young adults:

“In the West Bank alone, where Anar’s work is concentrated, over 40,000+ Palestinians have now been forcibly displaced by the Israeli military and settler violence. Every day, we witness more land confiscations. Access restrictions have intensified, with prolonged delays at checkpoints and new road gates and blocks installed. Bethlehem alone has 89 gates in and around it. The danger of travel is so significant that many Palestinian people can’t risk visiting their families in neighboring towns for many weeks.”

26 MARCH

VIOLENCE CONTINUES IN THE WEST BANK

Our partner the Pontifical Mission for Palestine gave us this report on the situation in the West Bank:

“In the northern districts of the West Bank, military attacks on Palestinian refugee camps and arresting people without trial is taking place on a daily basis. However, after October 7, 2023, and in recent months, Israeli military forces have been demolishing infrastructure throughout the West Bank including roads, homes and buildings, which displaced tens of thousands of people from Jenin, Tulkarem and Ein Shams refugee camps. Moreover, settler violence has reached unprecedented levels in Area C of the West Bank… All the current policies have all but shut down the tourism sector that is strangling the Palestinian economy, especially in Bethlehem.“

24 MARCH

SITUATION IN GAZA CONTINUES TO DETERIORATE

This morning, our partner the Pontifical Mission for Palestine, sent us this update:

“For over three weeks now, Israel has shut all crossings, including Rafah on the Egyptian side, preventing any humanitarian supplies from reaching Gaza. With the crossings shut, there is no food, water, fuel, medicine or medical supplies…People need water and electricity. However, water tanks that could be put on the rooftop and filled with desalinated water, are unavailable in Gaza. Electricity generators are unavailable…[and] fuel to run them is scarce.”

18 MARCH

PARTNERS IN GAZA FORCED TO SUSPEND OPERATIONS AMID AIRSRIKES

The renewal of Israeli Defence Forces airstrikes in Gaza have reported led to over 400 deaths. They are also having a huge impact on the ability of our partners to continue to provide vital humanitarian aid. Our partner Caritas Jerusalem sent us this update this morning:

“The attacks come amid a full blockade of aid and the continued closure of the Rafah crossing since March 2, raising fears of mass starvation.

Caritas Jerusalem has suspended all operations in Gaza, including staff movement and medical centre rehabilitation efforts, for safety reasons. Currently, 100 CJ staff members remain in Gaza, operating across 10 medical points.

With Gaza on the brink, Caritas Jerusalem continues to monitor the crisis, determined to resume life-saving services as soon as possible.

We plead for an immediate ceasefire and an end to the bloodshed before more innocent lives are lost.”

A PRAYER IN RESPONSE TO THE RENEWED AIRSTRIKES

We watch with dismay and anguish as the violence resumes in Gaza. Please join us in prayer:
Lord God,

We watch with dismay and anguish as the violence resumes in Gaza.

We pray for the people of Gaza: for those directly impacted by last night’s strikes and those now living in fear of what comes next.

We pray for the hostages, for their safety and that they will be released.

We pray for negotiators and those with political influence: give them compassion and restraint, and lead them in the paths of peace, not war.

Be close to our partners and give them strength as they continue to serve and help those in desperate need. In the name of the Prince of Peace.

Amen.

10 MARCH

7 MARCH

Children return to the classrooms in Lebanon - but carry traumatic memories of the war

The neighbourhood in which our partner Tahaddi runs an education centre was particularly badly affected by the Israeli airstrikes during the war. Most of the residents fled the area and so Tahaddi moved their education support online (teaching mainly WhatsApp messages). Now, thankfully the children have been able to return to the classrooms, but all have been psychologically affected by the war. Tahaddi has been helping the children process their experiences:

‘Each child had the chance to express the trauma they experienced during the war through an exercise led by our psychologist, who visited every classroom to facilitate support sessions. To symbolise their fears and sorrows, they chose a heavy stone; to represent what gave them strength, they picked up a feather. [One child told us] “The sound of bombs, the fear in my parents’ eyes, the hurried escape, leaving our blankets on the roadside …that was heavy”.

6 MARCH

Update from Al Ahli Hospital, Gaza

Dr Maher, Medical Director at Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza City, explains what it's been like at the hospital since the ceasefire.

4 MARCH

Thousands of people displaced in West Bank

Since the beginning of the year, the situation in the West Bank has deteriorated significantly, particularly in the Jenin Governorate, where Israel’s military has been conducting a major military operation, called Iron Wall, which it launched immediately after the ceasefire in Gaza was announced.

Our partner Caritas Jerusalem told us that over 40,000 have been displaced and the increasing IDF check points have made travel in and out of Jenin extremely difficult for their staff:

Since the escalation of violence in the West Bank, including Jenin, the humanitarian crisis has worsened. The Israeli military's operations, including airstrikes, sieges, and movement restrictions, have led to mass displacement and increased food insecurity, leaving thousands without access to essential services. The rise in settler violence and systematic blockages of aid is exacerbating an already dire situation. Despite these challenges, organizations like Caritas Jerusalem are tirelessly working to help displaced families live with dignity and hope for the future.

Embrace continues to support a psychological first aid programme in the West Bank, run by the East Jerusalem YMCA, which provides immediate mental health support for those who have been impacted by the violence.

3 MARCH

Amid disagreements between Israel and Hamas over the second phase of the ceasefire in Gaza, and Israel now blocking entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, please join us in praying for peace:

God of peace,

We pray for the continued ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. Guide the negotiators and those with influence in the paths of peace and justice.

We pray for the release of all remaining hostages and unfettered access to vital, lifesaving aid for Gaza. May people on both sides be treated with dignity and respect, and not as bargaining tools.

Surround all those living in fear and uncertainty with your protection. We pray that compassion, peace and justice will prevail.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

25 FEBRUARY

Israeli operations escalating in the West Bank

Israeli military operations are continuing to increase in the West Bank, particularly in the Jenin Governorate. This morning the work of our partner Caritas Jerusalem was interrupted by raids in the area. They sent us this update:

“This morning, Israeli Security Forces (ISF) invaded Zababdeh village, in the Jenin Governate, demolishing a house in the eastern neighbourhood. Caritas Jerusalem (CJ) staff were forced to remain at home, and the Latin School shifted to remote learning. The military withdrew an hour ago, marking another escalation in the ongoing operations across Jenin Governorate.

CJ continues to provide humanitarian aid to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the surrounding villages, despite limited resources. Staff are expected to return to the office shortly to resume relief efforts.”

As the situation in the West Bank grows increasingly uncertain and volatile, we ask you to hold those caught up in the violence in your prayers.

19 FEBRUARY

Disability services in Gaza City

Our partner the Princess Basma Centre provides specialist rehabilitation for children with disabilities in Gaza and the West Bank. Today they sent us this update:

“We cherish all good news these days. And so we celebrate the safe arrival of our two displaced therapists from southern Gaza to join their colleagues at our satellite unit in Gaza City.

We are also delighted that they are joined by a seventh team member, Ala'a our new Speech and Language therapist. This means that we can truly embrace our multi-disicplinary model of rehabilitation and treat children with complex needs and their families holistically and in one place.”

18 FEBRUARY

An update from the Olive Tree Project in the West Bank

Embrace supports the Olive Tree Project through our partner the East Jerusalem YMCA. The project helps Palestinian farmers in the West Bank by replacing olive trees that have been uprooted or destroyed by Settlers trying to claim Palestinian land as their own. They sent us this video update:

17 FEBRUARY

14 FEBRUARY

570 Christians still sheltering in Gaza City’s churches

The ceasefire has brought some relief and hope for Gaza’s Christian community, but they have not been able to return to their homes. 570 Christians remain in compounds of the Holy Family Church and St Porphyrius Church in Gaza City and daily life remains a struggle. Nathalie, who is current living at St Porphyrius Church, told our partner Caritas Jerusalem:

"All Christians are still located in churches' compounds. Nobody has left. Even if your house is still standing, it is not suitable for living... no materials are available to repair homes … There is no water, no electricity, no market to buy anything. We have to walk long distances to find anything of use, and even then, we may find nothing.”

The church compounds provide safety, food and shelter but life for those living there is still extremely difficult and uncertainty about what the future will hold continues.

11 FEBRUARY

An update from Al-Ahli Hospital, Gaza City

Staff at Al-Ahli Hospital tell us that they are continuing to see a huge demand for their medical services (600-700 patients a day). The ceasefire has meant many people are now seeking treatment for conditions or wounds and burns that they were not able to during the fighting. This means that sadly these patients are in a poor medical condition, experiencing acute symptoms.

Some chemotherapy and rehabilitation treatment for cancer patients has now restarted at the hospital and they are looking to repair their damaged diagnostic centre so that this can be expanded. Many of the buildings at Al Ahli Hospital have been damaged during the war - repairs are estimated at $1.6 million.

10 FEBRUARY

New medical point established in Gaza

Our partner Caritas Jerusalem are continuing to provide vital medical services in Gaza, as they did throughout the war. The ceasefire has meant they have been able to establish a new medical point on Al Rasheed Street (one of the main north-south roads in Gaza) to support the displaced families who are now returning to the ruins of northern Gaza. They are also making progress on repairing their damaged medical centre in Al-Shaati refugee camp in the north of Gaza so that this can be reopened. But with many supplies still scarce and the infrastructure of Gaza in ruins, the difficulties faced by all in Gaza are immense. They shared this video update and spoke of the daily challenges and uncertainty facing Gazans:

“The ceasefire offers little comfort when daily survival is fraught with challenges…this [medical] point is a lifeline for those navigating the precarious conditions of the aftermath of war.”

5 FEBRUARY

“We are not leaving” – Gaza’s Christians respond to President Trump

Shortly after President Trump’s shock announcement of his plans that the USA would take over Gaza and Palestinians would be resettled, we spoke to our friend George Antone, who remained in Gaza City throughout the war and is one of the 570 Christians still sheltering in the two churches there. He told us:

“For us as Christians, we are not leaving Gaza for any reason. We will remain in Gaza and we will help the people in Gaza. We will help in reconstructing Gaza. We will help in rebuilding the houses and the streets and we will stay in Gaza – we are not leaving. … Thank you very much for your concern and for Embrace the Middle East and everything you do for us.”

Embrace’s response to President Trump’s announcement about Gaza:

Our CEO, Jamie Eyre, shared Embrace’s reaction to President Trump’s announcement about Gaza in an interview on UCB Radio:

“We support an end to this conflict that is decided on by Palestinians and Israelis together, and not imposed by one side or one foreign power.”

You can listen to the full interview here.

4 FEBRUARY

Medical clinics reopen in Rafah and Gaza City

Throughout the war in Gaza, the dedicated medical staff of our partner the DSPR have been providing primary medical care but the war forced them to relocate their clinics on several occasions. The ceasefire has meant they’ve been able to return to assess the damage to their buildings and begin the work of reopening them. They told us:

“In Rafah, we have reopened our primary healthcare center, which had been forced to close during Israeli the invasion to Rafah. Thankfully, the building was not destroyed, though it required repairs, medical equipment, and medicine.

“We also continued operations at the clinic in Nuseirat, in the central area of Gaza strip…The [displaced] staff members who returned to Gaza City and the northern regions have joined the teams there [and] the temporary medical point established in Gaza City after the destruction of our clinics in Shejaiya and Daraj remains active. Restoration work is also underway at DSPR’s main building, bringing us closer to reopening two primary healthcare centers that will serve the people of Gaza City.”

Providing support for those returning to northern Gaza

Over the last few days, thousands of displaced Gazan families have been returning to the north. Many are making the journey on foot, carrying their possessions. Teams from our partner the DSPR have been out on the roads to distribute food and water and provide psychological first aid.

3 FEBRUARY

30 JANUARY

Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza still treating hundreds of patients a day

A couple of weeks ago, Al Ahli Hospital was treating over 700 patients a day. These photos, taken yesterday, show how busy the hospital remains, operating at far beyond capacity.

Please continue to pray for the patients and for the medical staff, as they continue to provide vital treatment amid deeply challenging circumstances.

29 JANUARY

24 JANUARY

23 JANUARY

A Message from Gaza’s Christians

20 JANUARY

Update on Al Ahli Hospital, Gaza

Yesterday the Anglican Diocese of Jerusalem issued a statement welcoming the ceasefire but also calling on the region’s leaders to invest political and financial capital into peacebuilding so that there can be a just and lasting peace. You can download the full statement here.

The diocese runs Al Ahli Hospital, which Embrace has been partnering with for many years and supporting throughout this current crisis. In their statement, they had this to say on the work of the hospital:

At this time, we would like to commend the courageous staff and volunteers of our Al Ahli Hospital and its clinics in Gaza, who have endured unbearable hardships in extending Christ’s healing ministry to the thousands of wounded patients they have treated throughout the course of the war. They are true heroes in this disastrous chapter in our region’s history.

We would also like to thank our many partners and donors around the world: without your generous support, we could not have kept our hospital supplied and running amid the many adversities it has faced. In the weeks and months ahead there will be more opportunities to contribute towards expanding the work of the hospital in order to meet the needs of the battered Gazan community in the face of a largely demolished healthcare system.

With the danger from airstrikes currently over, more people will be able to access the hospital and its outreach clinics to seek treatment, so demand for its services is likely to rise.

18 JANUARY

17 JANUARY

Update from the West Bank

Our colleague David is in the West Bank, visiting some of our partners. He sent us this update:

“In the West Bank our partners welcomed the news of the ceasefire with joy. They are relieved that the killing will end and that there will be some safety for their brothers and sisters and all the people of Gaza.

“They are also aware that now is when a lot of the work starts. Partners are busy and actively planning how they will respond. The magnitude of the need will become increasingly clear in the coming weeks. There are thousands injured, millions displaced and a traumatised population.

“Along with the joy there is also concern about what the future holds for the West Bank. The West Bank remains in crisis and the ceasefire in Gaza will not change the situation here. There is concern that military actions may increase and continue the pattern of escalation that has been seen in West Bank for the past 16 months. The intensity of the occupation continues to increase and the ceasefire needs to be just one step on the path towards a just peace.”

16 JANUARY

Response from our partner Caritas Jerusalem to the news of a Gaza ceasefire deal

Response from church leaders in Jerusalem to Gaza ceasefire deal

The Assembly of Catholic Ordinaries in the Holy Land (which is made up of leaders of the Latin, Melkite, Maronite, Syrian, Armenian and Chaldean churches and the Custody of the Holy Land), released a statement in which they said:

“… We hope that this ceasefire will mark an important end to the violence that has caused immeasurable suffering. It is a necessary step to halt the destruction and meet the urgent humanitarian needs of countless families affected by the conflict.

“However, we are aware that the end of the war does not mean the end of the conflict. It is therefore necessary to seriously and credibly address the deep-rooted issues that have been at the root of this conflict for far too long. Genuine and lasting peace can only be achieved through a just solution that addresses the origin of this long-standing struggle. This requires a long process, a willingness to acknowledge each other's suffering and a focused education in trust that leads to overcoming fear of the other and the justification of violence as a political tool…”

You can read their statement in full on their website.

Embrace’s response to the news of a ceasefire deal in Gaza

The temporary ceasefire is good news, but it is only the beginning, not the end. We remember all those who have been left dead or wounded, who have lost loved ones and all their possessions. We are deeply grateful for the courage and strength of our church partners who have carried on serving others in the most awful of circumstances, providing healthcare, psychological support and emergency provisions. We continue to call for lasting peace and an end to the violence. We call for the recognition of all Palestinians’ rights, an end to the illegal occupation of Palestinian territories, and full accountability for all violations of international law since 7 October 2023. 

Embrace the Middle East has joined with 17 other charities and NGOs in issuing a joint statement calling on the UK Government to ensure that this pause turns rapidly into a permanent ceasefire and that it is the impetus to bring to an end the Israeli authorities’ occupation and oppression of Palestinians. You can READ THE STATEMENT HERE

15 JANUARY

14 JANUARY

2 JANUARY

Strike on Al Ahli Hospital

We are distressed to hear about the strike on our partner, Al Ahli Hospital, in Gaza, on 29 December 2024. Healthcare facilities should not be targets of war, and any attack on them constitutes violations of international law. The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem has released the following statement about the strike:

“On the morning of the Feast of the Holy Family, December 29, 2024, our Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza was attacked again by an Israeli artillery shell which resulted in the destruction of a doctor’s clinic on the top floor of the Diagnostic Center Building at the west end, near the hospital compound. The affected building is currently functioning as the Chemotherapy Treatment Center in a partnership between Ahli Arab Hospital, Gaza, and Augusta Victoria Hospital, Jerusalem.

The Diocese of Jerusalem, owner and manager of Ahli Arab Hospital, condemns this attack and other attacks on the healthcare system in the Gaza Strip, especially in the North. We call upon all warring parties to reach a ceasefire immediately and come to an agreement for the sake of all innocent victims of this war.”