Statement: HI Urges Protection of Civilians and Immediate Aid Flow in Gaza

Following the resumption of hostilities and aid halt in Gaza, below is a statement by Hannah Guedenet, U.S. Executive Director of Humanity & Inclusion. 

 “After 16 days of Israel denying the entry of any humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip in violation of international humanitarian law, it is unconscionable to see hostilities resume, with over 400 people killed so far. We urge parties to the conflict to agree to an immediate and permanent ceasefire, uphold international humanitarian law, ensure the unconditional flow of humanitarian aid, and the immediate release of hostages.”

Key Data

• Since the Israeli military response started, over 61,700 Palestinians have been killed, according to (the Gaza Ministry of Health), including 3 HI staff. At the same time, almost 111,000 people are injured - 70% of whom are women and children. There are 38,000 orphans.

• Thousands are suffering from life-altering disabilities due to the relentless bombings, the absence of medical care, and the absence of a medical evacuation system in place.

• 90% of the population was forcibly displaced multiple times, and critical infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, was utterly destroyed.

• The territory is reduced to ruins, littered with unexploded remnants of war, a significant threat to the population.

HI Continues its Relief Efforts

• In January 2025, HI opened a prosthesis and orthosis Workshop, the Nahla Center for Prosthesis and Orthosis, in Khan Younes, South Gaza, with five HI staff members.

• 194 staff are active; locations currently active are Gaza City - Khan Younis and the middle area

Spokespersons are available for interviews upon media request.