In a symbolic gesture of goodwill, in the midst of ongoing violence between Israel and Hamas, Israel has allowed some injured Palestinians and foreign nationals to leave the Gaza Strip for the first time since the war began nearly two weeks ago.
This humanitarian act has been praised by peacemakers and humanitarians, as it marks a hopeful new step towards resolving the current conflict. The group of injured Palestinians and foreign nationals left from the Erez crossing, a gateway between Israel and Gaza, which is usually closed during times of conflict.
The wounded Palestinians were transferred to hospitals in Ramallah and Hebron, in the West Bank. The foreign nationals were transferred to their respective embassies. While the international press has reported that few details were provided on either group, it was made clear that the aid was provided by virtue of the organizations World Health Organization and United Nations, and that the two groups were allowed to leave in ambulances provided by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The Israeli government has stated that it is their responsibility to provide humanitarian aid to those in need. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office said, “We are doing whatever necessary to ensure the security and safety of civilians in the region.”
The crew of the Red Cross surrounded the shuttle that departed the Erez crossing on Monday and spoke to reporters about the desperate situation in Gaza. Dr. Anne Toner, one of the ICRC representatives, said, “These people are in such desperate conditions, and many will never look the same. We need to do everything possible to provide them with medical attention and emotional support.”
The news of the departure of the shuttle has been met with further calls for an immediate end to the hostilities. Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire and said, “Immediate steps must be taken to enable the wounded, trapped civilians and other vulnerable people to receive the urgent assistance they require, particularly medical care. All parties must abide by their obligations under International Humanitarian Law.”
The international community is hopeful that this gesture of humanity will be the first step of many to end the conflict in Gaza. While the hope might be dim, the Israeli government’s humanitarian move has shown the world that there is still a chance, however small, for a peaceful resolution.