MAP’s CEO Tony Laurance shares his reflections on the winter facing Palestinians following his recent visit to Gaza.
Just getting to Gaza last month reminded me of the difficulties the people there face on a daily basis. Israel’s blockade, which started in June 2007, has now placed Gaza under siege for over 7 years, leaving its million inhabitants cut off from the rest of the world at a time when they desperately need support to rebuild their lives. Along with three devastating attacks on the Strip in the last 6 years, the blockade has left Gaza entirely dependent on aid, meaning that NGOs like MAP have a vital role to play.
The devastating effects of "Operation Protective Edge" this summer continue to take their toll on the people of Gaza, many of whom are still reeling from its impact. 100,000 people remain displaced by the conflict. While some have found shelter with host families, others are living in damaged houses or caravans which provide little protection against the elements. As winter approaches, temperatures are dropping and the region is facing heavy rain, causing many of the caravans to leak and become unstable. Recent flooding caused the numbers of displaced people to rise in Gaza as hundreds of Palestinians were forced to evacuate their homes, while UNRWA declared an Emergency.
The coming winter will bring many dangers for the people of Gaza. As they face the horrendously cold weather, with many surviving in flimsy shelters, people often make use of unsafe gas heaters which cause burns and inhalation problems. The risks are especially great this year as high levels of displacement have worsened the already-serious overcrowding in Gaza.
In this setting, access to medical care is especially vital. MAP continues to work hard to ensure that the people of Gaza can receive the medicines and treatment they need - and despite the many difficulties, we are making a positive difference. MAP’s Neonatal Life Support course has provided training for 182 medical staff in Gaza. Our team of surgeons continues to provide essential specialised care on a regular basis; on their most recent visit to Gaza they held consultations with twenty eight patients and carried out specialised surgery on six. I personally met a number of individuals who have benefited directly from MAP’s projects, made possible by your incredible support. I left with the feeling that while Gaza may be suffering, its people continue to survive.
@TonyLauranceMAP