Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA) is deeply saddened to witness the two year mark of the outbreak of violence in Gaza. Over this period, the people of Gaza have gone through immense suffering, with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reporting at least 68,300 deaths, 167,000 injuries, and 1.9 million people displaced at least once.
“It is shocking to witness the violence in Gaza persist for two long years. Every day that passes, more lives are shattered, and more families are left in despair. According to the International Rescue Committee, 17,000 children are now unaccompanied by a parent or orphaned. As a humanitarian organization, we cannot accept the normalization of this suffering. The people of Gaza deserve peace, dignity, and the chance to rebuild their futures,” stated Ahmed Shehata, CEO of Islamic Relief USA.
For the first time in modern history, famine has been declared in Gaza, with over a million people now facing emergency levels of hunger, and children are tragically dying of starvation. An average of 28 children are killed every day – equivalent to a classroom full of children.
“These numbers are not just statistics, they are lives. Behind each number is a child who won’t laugh again as they once did, a mother who will forever mourn, and a community struggling to bear what seems unbearable. Our mission is to restore hope, reconnect shattered lives, and stand as a voice for justice.”
Islamic Relief USA reaffirms its commitment to the people of Gaza, and despite roadblocks, has committed over $70.6 million through 13 partner organizations working in Gaza to provide emergency relief and humanitarian aid in Palestine including food aid, medical care, winter aid, improved access to water, psychological support, and much more. IRUSA has provided support to 5+ million* individuals in Gaza to date.
“Our work in Gaza is a reflection of our values of compassion, mercy, and justice. We will continue to stand with the people of Gaza, not only in their time of crisis, but also in their journey toward recovery. We urge the international community to act decisively for peace and to protect the rights and lives of civilians.”
*In some cases, one individual may qualify to receive aid through several different projects. For the purpose of this publication, the individual will be counted once for each project he or she received aid from.
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