Bond statement on Rafah, Gaza

1.3 million people are currently trapped in the southern city of Rafah in Gaza, formerly a designated ‘safe zone’ by Israel.

Following Israel’s air strikes on Rafah in the early hours of Monday 12 February, Romilly Greenhill, CEO at Bond, the UK network for NGOs, has said:

Humanitarian organisations are gravely concerned by Israel’s offensive on Rafah. Rafah is the final safe place for civilians in Gaza and any offensive risks mass casualties among the 1.3 million people sheltering there. The UK should use full diplomatic pressure to urge Israel to halt its campaign and call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire. This is the best way to prevent further loss of civilian lives, secure the release of the hostages, and ensure the entry of life-saving humanitarian assistance.

ENDS.

Notes to editors

• Read Bond’s reaction on 30th January to the UK and other countries suspending funding to UNRWA.

• Read Bond’s reaction to the International Court of Justice outcome on 26 January 2024.

• Bond unites and supports a diverse network of over 350 civil society organisations from across the UK, and allies to help eradicate global poverty, inequality and injustice. 

• Many of Bond’s member organisations are actively working in, or have recently worked in some form in Gaza providing humanitarian assistance to civilians.

• For further information or interviews, please get in touch with Jess Salter at [email protected] or call 07493200979.