The recent outbreak of violent conflict in the Middle East has sent shockwaves around the globe due to its unprecedented severity, brutality and speed.

In a statement on the outbreak of violence in Israel and Palestine the Patriarchs and heads of Churches in Jerusalem said,

"We unequivocally condemn any acts that target civilians, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, or faith. Such actions go against the fundamental principles of humanity and the teachings of Christ, who implored us to "love your neighbour as yourself" (Mark 12:31). 

The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem has already begun to respond to the conflict with humanitarian assistance to the wounded in the environs of their existing hospital in Gaza.

From the onset of this crisis, the staff of Al Ahli Hospital have been tirelessly tending to injured or wounded people every day, many of whom are innocent children. The hospital's dedicated staff has been working around the clock, battling exhaustion and limited resources amid ongoing military operations. Their supplies have dwindled to critical levels, with only enough to sustain lifesaving healthcare for one more week.

Suhaila Tarazi, the Director of Al Ahli Hospital (whose own house has been destroyed by the conflict), expressed the dire situation, stating, "The situation is severely critical... life in Gaza is paralysed, with all institutions and private sectors closed severely impacting people's access to basic necessities."

In response to this humanitarian crisis, the Anglican Church is calling for peace, justice, reconciliation and resolution; for a swift end to the conflict and the establishment of humanitarian and aid corridors to help deliver lifesaving care and supplies to affected areas and people.

Funds raised will be directed towards supplying essential resources for the hospital and its dedicated staff, as well as assisting with other critical humanitarian needs wherever possible.

Your donations will go towards highly practical support for the hospital and its staff, as they treat any and all casualties of the conflict, including:

• Medical supplies, particularly bandages for burns
• Psychosocial support for patients and staff who are exhausted, traumatised and scared
• Plastic sheeting to cover windows that have been blown out by the concussive force of repeated missile strikes
• Food and water supplies
• Fuel for generators, which the hospital is running on due to disrupted electrical supply

Donations to the Al Ahli Hospital Appeal are tax deductible in Aotearoa New Zealand.

 To donate to the appeal, visit:

www.anglicanmissions.org.nz/hospital

Anglican Missions is an international aid, development, humanitarian and mission organisation that works with and on behalf of the Anglican Church in New Zealand and Polynesia. For more information, visit www.anglicanmissions.org.nz.

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