The continuous escalation of violence in Gaza has seen Palestinians lose loved ones, suffer from horrific injuries and endure the trauma of mass displacement. Despite the extreme difficulties faced by our brothers and sisters in Gaza, their unshakable and unwavering faith has been an inspiration to us all.

At least 26,422 Palestinians have been killed and more than 65,087 injured due to the ongoing violence. This number is expected to increase rapidly as airstrikes continue. Nearly 50% of deaths are children.

In the Gaza Strip, the strikes are thought to have destroyed tens of thousands of homes, and 4 in 5 people have had to flee their homes. As many are forced to seek shelter in dozens of schools and hospitals, they urgently need food and other basic survival items.

There are also serious health concerns due to poor sanitation and overcrowding. Outbreaks of Hepatitis A have been reported, which is highly contagious and is just one of the growing risks of diseases that civilians in Gaza are exposed to.

To make matters worse, the healthcare system is on the brink of collapse, due to widespread destruction and damage of hospitals. Medical facilities which are in operation are extremely inadequate and overcrowded- with reports of centres holding three times as many patients as their capacities.

As conditions rapidly deteriorate amid this latest escalation in hostilities, Islamic Relief remains steadfast in our determination to assist Palestinian families by distributing essential items to affected families.

Despite the challenges, Islamic Relief teams on the ground in Gaza continue to tirelessly distribute essential aid on a daily basis. We have distributed medical items, hot meals and psychosocial support to children.

With your support, Islamic Relief will remain a lifeline for Palestinian families. Please give generously to our Palestine Emergency Appeal now.