Embrace Partner Updates
Latest news from Gaza, Israel, the West Bank & Lebanon
Airstrikes hitting Beirut, March 2026
Our partners are directly affected by, and have been responding to, the escalating conflict across the region. We will continue to share updates, and prayer requests as they come in. We also have a dedicated prayer page.
Please give what you can to our Emergency Appeal. Your generosity will mean our partners can get help to where it’s needed most.
LATEST UPDATES
18 MARCH
Partner Responses Amidst Continued Escalation
The situation continues to deteriorate in Lebanon, with Israel increasing its bombing and ground invasion as Hezbollah continues to support Iran with attacks on Israel. There are now a million displaced people from southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley and the southern districts of Beirut. Although not in the evacuation area, our partners in central and northern Beirut tell us of missiles hitting areas close to where their centres are - often without warning.
Meanwhile, the situation in East Jerusalem and the West Bank remains dire as travel is restricted, people cannot access work, schools, family and medical care, and they live with the trauma of missiles overhead and falling shrapnel, sometimes as big as cars. Terrible stories are emerging as settler violence increases unchecked.
Through this, our partner Caritas Jerusalem has mobilised its staff and volunteers to respond to the needs. They are delivering food packages and hot meals to elderly people who are confined to their homes and unable to access regular care, and are giving people human connection in the face of fear and uncertainty.
You can see more of what they’re doing here: Caritas Jerusalem Delivers Food and Hot Meals to Elderly Beneficiaries Amid Ongoing War - Caritas Jerusalem
Image: Caritas Jerusalem Delivers Food and Hot Meals
13 MARCH
An update from Lebanon – airstrike damage to centres & sheltering refugees
It’s been another incredibly frightening and difficult night for the citizens of Beirut. Several of our partners in Lebanon tell us that airstrikes have hit very close to their centres. There were major air-raids last night near Thimar’s Baptist School, which is currently sheltering displaced families, and Al-Kafaàt have sent us photos of damage caused by airstrikes to their Al-Kafaàt Village Campus in the southern suburbs of Beirut. This Campus was already closed, following extensive damaged caused airstrikes in the previous conflict, so thankfully no one was hurt.
Since September 2024 Al-Kafaàt have continued providing disability services from a site outside Beirut, like Thimar they have been welcoming displaced families to the centre there – currently providing shelter and food to 204 people.
Please keep our partners and all they are serving in your prayers at this incredibly difficult time. They have specifically ask for prayers for:
* The safety of their staff.
* Those who live in the areas affected who have had to leave their homes yesterday to seek temporary shelter, and who may face the same situation again if threats continue.
* The safety employees who travel from different areas outside Beirut, who continue to come to work despite the risks they face while commuting.
* The well-being and strength of all employees as they faithfully carry out their duties during this challenging time.
Thank you for standing with us.
Images: Left, damage to Al-Kafaàt Village Campus in recent strikes. Above: Displaced families shelter in Al-Kafaàt campus outside Beirut.
12 MARCH
** Urgent prayer request from Lebanon
As the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel continues, Israeli forces have issued further large-scale evacuation warnings across Beirut’s suburbs, including in a number of the areas where our long-term partners live and work. There have been sweeping orders for residents to leave whole of southern Lebanon as Israel threatens to take the territory by force. Please pray that all those fleeing will find safety and shelter. As the crisis continues to escalate, please pray for restraint and mercy from those on both sides of the conflict.
“When I left my house at 3am…I had to leave the most precious things I have, my livelihood and everything. In a moment I left everything I had and came here, hoping my family would be safe…”
DISPLACED FOR THE FIFTH TIME
11 MARCH
An update from Iraq
Please pray for our partners in Erbil, northern Iraq. They tell us that it is a very difficult and tense time for the city:
“There has been continuous shelling by Iran and militias affiliated with it in Iraq…The situation has created a great deal of fear among residents, as the shelling continues almost daily. During the attacks, windows and doors shake strongly, especially when drones are intercepted and their fragments fall over residential areas.
At the same time, prices in Erbil have risen significantly. For example, a gas cylinder that previously cost around $6 now costs about $18, and the price continues to increase. Electricity outages have also reached up to 16 hours per day, forcing people to rely again on private neighborhood generators…
Overall, the situation is very difficult. Despite everything, we thank God for His protection, and we continue to pray to the Blessed Virgin Mary, trusting that she is watching over us and keeping us safe.”
9 MARCH
Another weekend of shelling in Lebanon
Our partners tell us that it’s been another weekend of intense shelling in Lebanon. They report that the situation is still escalating and the needs are growing.
Those in the areas around Beirut considered safer are continuing to see an influx of displaced families desperately seeking shelter. They are working hard to distribute much-needed basic supplies and are also launching mental health support for those struggling to deal with the stress and trauma of the situation.
Many of our partners have had to close their education centres for safety reasons, but they are shifting to online education to ensure children still have access to lessons.
7 MARCH
Blanket and mattress distribution in Lebanon
Our partner MERATH (Middle East Revive and Thrive) have been distributing blankets and mattresses to emergency shelters. They have also asked for our prayers:
“We ask you to pray that displaced families find shelter, and that they are protected and able to safely return home. Pray for peace in the region, for protection over Lebanon, and for strength and wisdom for our ministry and partners as they continue to stand with those in need.”
6 MARCH
A difficult night in Beirut
With 26 airstrikes hitting the Beirut area last night, we are grateful to have heard from our partners today. Many of their centres are based within the ever-expanding evacuation zone and have had to close. However, this does not mean that they have ceased operations, far from it. As always our partners are the epitome of love in action, pivoting their activities and services to ensure that the most urgent and crucial needs are met. Please pray for them as they endeavour to provide for the more than 90,000 displaced locally whilst also attending to the safety of their own staff and their families.
Here are some of the messages we received this morning:
‘The centre is not damaged and staff have reached home safely. We kept the windows on our buildings and cars open so that the powerful explosions would not break the glass. So far it has worked.’
‘The situation around us is not very good. I can see black pillars of smoke rising not far from the centre. The southern suburb of Beirut is almost empty as many people have fled - I saw some families sleeping in vans and cars.’
‘Thanks be to God, we are all safe. We are outside of the area of heavy shelling. Our centre is welcoming children from displaced families who are residing with host families among our beneficiaries, they are taking part in our usual programme of activities.’
Our partner Caritas Jerusalem have shared this video detailing their response to the most recent escalations in Gaza and the West Bank:
5 MARCH
Urgent Prayer Request
Israeli forces have issued immediate evacuation orders to large parts of Beirut's suburbs. Issuing a warning to 'Save your lives, evacuate your homes immediately'. The roads in Beirut are already clogged with traffic from people trying to flee, making it harder for families to get out. Some of our partners and their staff are in the evacuation zones. Please pray for them and for all affected.
Rapidly deteriorating situation in the West Bank, with increased movement restrictions and settler violence
As the eyes of the world are on the dramatic events unfolding across the Gulf States, the situation in the West Bank is rapidly deteriorating. We received this update from the Diocese of Jerusalem:
“Widespread closures and severe movement restrictions have been imposed throughout cities, towns, and villages, making daily life extraordinarily difficult. Checkpoints, roadblocks, and sudden closures have limited people’s ability to move freely, access workplaces, reach schools, or obtain medical care.
At the same time, settler violence has sharply escalated. Attacks on Palestinian communities have become more frequent and more aggressive, creating an atmosphere of fear and instability. Access to basic needs — including food, medical care, and essential supplies — is increasingly restricted. Many families feel that nowhere is truly safe.
Just yesterday, two Palestinians were killed in the north following a settler attack. They reportedly bled to death after ambulances were prevented from reaching them due to restrictions imposed by Israeli soldiers. Incidents like this deepen the sense of despair and helplessness felt by many.
Your prayers and solidarity are a powerful source of comfort and strength during these extremely painful times.”
The update we’ve had from our partner the DSPR (Department of Service to Palestinian Refugees) paints a similar picture of the stark reality:
“Missiles have been falling in the vicinity of our cities and villages across the West Bank, and in some cases shrapnel has landed inside residential areas. At the same time, the Israeli occupation has intensified the measures, including increased arrests, road closures, and further restrictions on movement. We are also witnessing a dangerous escalation in settler violence and related crimes, seemingly taking advantage of the world’s preoccupation with the broader regional war.
Regarding Gaza, the people there are still suffering the devastating consequences of the genocidal war, profound loss, trauma, and the daily struggle to survive amid severe shortages in all sectors and the continued closure of crossings. The humanitarian and psychological toll remains overwhelming.
Thank you again for your solidarity and partnership. It means a great deal to us and to the communities we serve.”
4 MARCH
Latest from Lebanon - providing water & medical care for displaced families as airstrikes continue
Our partner the Karagheusian Healthcare Centre in northern Beirut tell us that they are seeing an influx of people coming to their centre as people from South Lebanon and the southern suburbs of Beirut flee their homes. The staff there are not only offering primary medical care but are also able to provide displaced families with drinking water and, thanks to the centre’s solar panels, it’s a place where they can charge their mobile phones. Here are a few pictures of what’s been going on at the centre today:
Further south, our partner Tahaddi provide healthcare, education and a range of community support to an informal settlement on the edge of Beirut.
Airstrikes have hit near the neighbourhood. They sent us this photo showing smoke rising from the site of an airstrike not far from their centre.
Smoke rising from site of an airstrike near the community and healthcare centre of our partner Tahaddi.
3 MARCH
Responding with Practical Action and Prayer
Our Lebanese partner Thimar-LSESD report that dozens of airstrikes have hit Beirut’s southern suburbs and the south of Lebanon. Evacuation orders have been issued to over 50 villages in the south meaning that tens of thousands of people are now displaced and seeking refuge in public spaces. They are already responding to meet basic needs for families, providing mattresses, blankets and other essentials.
“The needs are huge and expected to grow as the conflict in the Middle East worsens with no immediate end in sight.”
Please join our partners in prayer…
…for peace: As the war escalates rapidly, many are worried about what this war could turn into. We pray for restraint and for wisdom among the leaders, and for mercy upon this land.
…for the region: Pray for protection over civilians, safe passage for the displaced, mental health for those who have been worn out for so long now, mothers and fathers attempting to explain what’s happening to their children.
…for discernment: As His people, we are called once again to be light in the midst of darkness. This is the early phase; our ministries are reflecting on how best we can be serving in this time. Pray for wisdom as we navigate our response in this war and reflect His image to all the people we’re working with.
From our partners MECC (The Middle East Council of Churches)
Lord Jesus,
By your patience in suffering,
you hallowed earthly pain
and gave us the example
of obedience to your Father's will.
We ask you to be near us
in our time of weakness and pain,
sustain us by your grace,
and heal us according to your will.
Amen.
2 MARCH
An update from Lebanon
As conflict spreads across the region and airstrikes hit Beirut and southern Lebanon today, our partners there tell us that once again fear and turmoil face the country. They are receiving lots of requests for help – including requests for blankets, food and shelter as families once again flee their homes in fear of the airstrikes.
Just as in the conflict of Autumn 2024, our partners are already responding, turning their centres into shelters and drawing up emergency plans. Many of our partners’ staff live in neighbourhoods that are directly affected. All are living with the fear and uncertainty of what will come next for Lebanon. One message to us read: “We continue to pray for peace in the region and ask that you please keep us in your prayers.”
Missile attacks and movement restrictions – an update from Jerusalem
Our partner Caritas Jeruslam provide medical care and humanitarian aid across Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza. Their team in Jerusalem sent us this update:
“Jerusalem and other major cities are experiencing continuous missile and rocket fire, with repeated air raid sirens and emergency alerts throughout the day and night. Residents are spending extended hours in shelters, and sleep disruption has become widespread due to persistent alarms…
Movement restrictions have intensified significantly, with all military checkpoints closed until further notice. This has effectively halted travel between governorates, including the main crossings between Jerusalem and Bethlehem, and between Bethlehem and Hebron, which are currently sealed from both directions. These closures have disrupted regular mobility and coordination across field locations.
Despite the escalating situation, Caritas Jerusalem confirms that its humanitarian operations in Gaza continue as planned, with field teams maintaining critical service delivery under strict security protocols. In addition, both of our medical centers in Taybeh and Gaza remain fully operational and are delivering essential health services to vulnerable communities under challenging and high-risk conditions…
In this difficult time, Caritas Jerusalem calls upon its partners, supporters, and friends around the world to stand in solidarity and join in prayers for peace, stability, and the protection of all civilians in the Holy Land and the wider region.”
28 FEBRUARY
Statement from Bishop Hosam, following US, Israeli and Iranian strikes across the region
“Suddenly, our people, from the Mediterranean to the Persian Gulf find themselves once again huddled in shelters, fearing for our lives as the shadow of total regional war looms over us… We must remain bridge builders. Even as diplomatic windows seem to slam shut, the Church must keep the doors of reconciliation open. We refuse to see our neighbours as enemies…”
The words of Most Revd Dr Hosam, Bishop of Jerusalem and the Middle East as he urges the Anglican Communion to join in prayer and intercession. Read his statement in full here
Please join us in prayer
We watch with dismay and anguish as violence once again escalates in the region. We ask you to join is in prayer:
10 FEBRUARY
As Caritas Jerusalem continues its work in Gaza, Israel confirms it does not need to re-register as NGO
Our partner Caritas Jerusalem, whose licence as a registered NGO to work in Gaza and the West Bank was revoked by the Israeli authorities in December, has sent us this update:
Caritas Jerusalem confirms that it has received an official communication from the Israeli Inter-Ministerial Team regarding its registration status.
Following a renewed examination, the Inter-Ministerial Team determined that the provisions of the “Guidelines for the Registration of Organizations and Issuance of Recommendations for Their Foreign Employees” related to the interim period are not applicable to Caritas Jerusalem. The communication further states that any previous correspondence on this matter is hereby nullified.
This notification clarifies Caritas Jerusalem’s status and indicates that no further procedures are being pursued by the Inter-Ministerial Committee in relation to re-registration.
Caritas Jerusalem welcomes this outcome and expresses its sincere appreciation to all those who contributed to this positive resolution.
6 FEBRUARY
Our partner Caritas Jerusalem have sent us this update from their clinic in Gaza, telling us:
“Fida’s story reflects the critical role Caritas Jerusalem’s medical teams continue to play in Gaza — delivering life-saving healthcare to families who have nowhere else to turn, even in the most challenging circumstances. Fida’s words speak directly to the difference your partnership makes on the ground, providing essential treatment that many families otherwise have no access to.”
29 JANUARY
Hypothermia and respiratory infections on the rise in Gaza
Our partners report that cases of hypothermia, acute respiratory infections and skin conditions are on the rise in Gaza. Inadequate shelter, overcrowded camps, difficulty accessing clean water and ongoing food shortages are just some of the many challenges facing displaced families. Winter conditions are exacerbating the health crisis, putting more people at risk.
Many have weakened immune systems, leaving them more vulnerable to diseases, while others are in urgent need of reconstructive surgery and ongoing treatment for wounds received during the war.
Continuing critical shortages of medicines, medical supplies and specialist equipment mean many are unable to get appropriate medical care. Embrace’s partner Al Ahli Hospital, in Gaza City, for example, remains the only hospital with a functioning CT scanner. The hospital, run by the Diocese of Jerusalem, continues to provide primary, trauma and secondary healthcare services, including surgeries, lab testing and ultra sounds. Sawsan, Programme Development Officer at the Diocese of Jerusalem, told us:
“People talk about rebuilding Gaza, but what is needed now is to care for and rebuild the people.”
28 JANUARY
We’ve an update from the Jerusalem Princess Basma Centre team in Gaza as they continue to provide rehabilitative treatment for children with chronic conditions along with those who’ve suffered life-changing injuries because of the war.
DISABILITY SUPPORT IN GAZA CONTINUES BUT IMPACT OF WAR IS STILL A DAILY REALITY
7 JANUARY
LATEST BLOG - REFLECTION FROM JERUSALEM
“When political leaders announced a peace agreement to end the genocide in Gaza, many celebrated what seemed like a turning point. Yet, for those living on the ground, especially across Palestine, this so-called ‘peace’ feels painfully disconnected from daily reality…”
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