In Gaza, air and artillery strikes have devastated northern regions, particularly Jabalia, Beit Lahia, and Gaza City. Among those hit are shelters managed by Juzoor, which have provided refuge for displaced families, including children, women, and older people, since the start of the conflict. The bombardment of these shelters has resulted in fatalities and critical injuries. Medical points run by Juzoor have also been hit. The destruction of much needed medical equipment, medications, and essential supplies has further crippled the organisation’s ability to provide life-saving medical services to those in need.
Several Juzoor staff members have also been critically injured and are receiving urgent medical care. The home Juzoor’s Director in Gaza who has overseen their operations throughout the last year, was also partially destroyed in the shelling, forcing his family to flee to a safer location. Despite these challenges, Juzoor is restructuring its operations to prioritise the safety of its teams while continuing to deliver essential services to those affected by the ongoing conflict.
In Lebanon, Amel is facing similar challenges. In October, an Israel Defense Forces airstrike hit the organisation’s Education Center in Kfar Joz, Nabatieh. The destruction of this facility, a key site for educational and community support, has disrupted vital services. But despite the ongoing dangers, Amel remains committed to continuing its humanitarian mission, working under extremely difficult conditions to provide aid to displaced communities.
HelpAge International condemns these attacks on humanitarian workers and facilities in Gaza and Lebanon and calls for the protection of civilians and those providing essential services. These strikes are violations of international humanitarian law and have devastating consequences, particularly for vulnerable groups such as older people, who are often disproportionately affected by conflict. HelpAge stresses the need for the protection of aid workers, who are vital in delivering life-saving assistance to those in need.
