Geneva (ICRC) – The human misery caused by this escalation is abhorrent, and I implore the sides to reduce the suffering of civilians.
As Gaza loses power, hospitals lose power, putting newborns in incubators and elderly patients on oxygen at risk. Kidney dialysis stops, and X-rays can’t be taken. Without electricity, hospitals risk turning into morgues.
Families in Gaza are already having trouble accessing clean water. No parent wants to be forced to give a thirsty child dirty water.
At the same time Israeli families are worried sick about loved ones taken hostage. The taking of hostages is prohibited under international humanitarian law, and anyone being held should be immediately released.
We are now in contact with Hamas and Israeli officials as part of efforts on this issue. As a neutral intermediary we stand ready to conduct humanitarian visits; facilitate communication between hostages and family members; and to facilitate any eventual release.
Document Sources: International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
Subject: Armed conflict, Gaza Strip, Health
Publication Date: 12/10/2023
URL source: https://www.icrc.org/en/document/israel-and-occupied-territories-hospitals-risk-turning-morgues-without-electricity-hostages-must-be-released