Amid Regional Escalation, Civilians in Gaza and the West Bank Face Growing Risks

As hostilities intensify across Gaza and the West Bank, humanitarian needs continue to rise. Anne-Claire Yaeesh, HI Country Director in Palestine, highlights the urgent risks facing civilians, especially persons with disabilities.

“The situation in the occupied Palestinian territory is further worsening on a daily basis. We are reminded during the current regional escalation that when tensions are high and violence reaches unprecedented levels, the most vulnerable communities pay the heaviest price, primarily persons with disabilities.  

No one should be using explosive weapons in civilian-populated areas, and no one is above the law; all parties to the conflict should be held to the same standard and adhere to international humanitarian law. 

Across the occupied Palestinian territory, despite the shrinking humanitarian space, we have a strong commitment and dedication to providing life-saving services to millions of people in need of humanitarian assistance due to the man-made crisis that we have been living with for over two years now. 

While the international community’s attention is drawn to multiple crises in the region, the situation in Gaza and the West Bank must not be overlooked. In Gaza, violations of international humanitarian law continue, the ceasefire is not being fully respected, humanitarian aid is not entering at the scale required, and violence and killings in the West Bank are increasing.  

After decades of recurring violence and suffering, the urgency of ending this cycle cannot be overstated. The protection of civilians, full respect for international law, and meaningful efforts to address the underlying causes of the conflict are essential to achieving an end to the violence.’’ 

Anne-Claire Yaeesh, HI Country Director in Palestine.

Spokespersons are available for interviews upon request.