Children’s suffering as a result of the vicious cycle of violence must end in Gaza and Israel, says World Vision
• Reports are emerging of an increasing number of children being killed in Gaza as violence intensifies on both sides.
• World Vision suspends programmes and fears for the safety of children caught in the crossfire.
July 10, JERUSALEM – Reports of children being killed as violence in the Gaza Strip and Israel intensifies are shocking, says World Vision. The conflict has increased significantly over the last three days, with rockets being fired from the Gaza Strip into Southern Israel, and intense air strikes from the Israeli army dropping on targets in Gaza.
“This is a vicious cycle of violence and it needs to stop immediately. We’re watching innocent civilians, including children, being injured and killed. Leaders have a responsibility to cease this futile sacrifice of innocent lives and engage in genuine dialogue to reach a just and lasting peace,” said Alex Snary, National Director of World Vision’s work in Jerusalem, West Bank and Gaza.
With over 800 air strikes on Gaza, reports indicate that at least 84 people have been killed in the last three days, most of whom are women and children and more than 620 people are reported injured. 113 houses have been totally destroyed. The Humanitarian Coordinator and the Director of UNRWA Operations in Gaza, as well as the Palestinian Ministry of Health and the municipality of Gaza City have all declared an emergency situation.
“We have suspended our operations in Gaza. We are not able to reach the children and families in our programme areas because of the danger of moving in Gaza,” said Snary.
“Enough is enough. Children need peace; not tomorrow, not next week. Today. We have witnessed the clear, long-term, devastating impact this violence has on children and families,” Snary added.
The Palestinian armed groups have fired over 250 rockets into Israel’s south, centre and coastal plains. Long-range rockets have reached Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and as far north as Hadera, with the Iron Dome defence system intercepting most of them. Nine Israelis have suffered light injuries while running for shelter, while 59 others have been treated for shock.
World Vision is preparing to implement an emergency response as soon as the security situation allows.
“Sadly, we know from previous experience that even after the immediate needs for food and shelter for those people who have lost their homes are met, the psychological suffering of the children and the grieving for those who were killed will continue for months to come.” said Snary.
For media inquiries, please contact Rana Qumsiyeh at World Vision
Email: (rana_qumsiyeh@wvi.org),
Skype: Rana.Qumsiyeh,
Phone: +972547749518
Notes to editors
• World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organisation dedicated to working with children, families and communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.
• World Vision believes the ongoing occupation and conflict has robbed generations of Palestinian and Israeli children of peace, justice, and hope for a future where fullness of life is possible. World Vision believes the Government of Israel, and the Palestinian Unity Government must ensure the legitimate security concerns of both Israelis and Palestinians.