October 13, 2023

“The sudden outbreak of violent armed hostilities in Israel and Gaza is devastating for so many. Our hearts go out to those who have lost loved ones and who are suffering as the devastating violence continues. "

The American Red Cross is guided by seven Fundamental Principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality. As a humanitarian organization, these principles guide our actions every day and compel us to alleviate human suffering in the U.S. and around the world.  

The global Red Cross Movement serves as a neutral and impartial party to reach and help people when and where it is needed most. Over the past several days, Red Cross Red Crescent societies Magen David Adom in Israel and the Palestinian Red Crescent Society have been responding as the conflict has escalated, providing emergency assistance including health services, ambulance services and other critical needs. To ensure this lifesaving work, Red Cross and Red Crescent officials continue to call for medical transportation, health workers and facilities to be protected.   

The International Committee of the Red Cross, which has maintained a presence in the area for decades, stands ready to provide humanitarian assistance on both sides. Furthermore, the International Committee of the Red Cross underscores the importance of international humanitarian law and adherence to the Geneva Conventions to protect civilians, those detained and those working to save lives.   

In times of crisis, conflict and complexity, the American Red Cross leads with humanity and compassion in a world where we too often find pain and anguish. We remain committed to helping those in need. 

Additional information of note: 

For those trying to locate or get in touch with a U.S. citizen, please contact the U.S. Department of State Overseas Citizens Services Office call 1-833-890-9595 or 1-606-641-0131 to connect to the coordinating group.   

During emergencies, the American Red Cross will ship blood products outside of the U.S. following a specific request from the U. S. State Department for U.S. citizens overseas, at the request of the United Nations, or at the request of the affected Red Cross or Red Crescent society abroad. We have not received requests for Israel or Gaza at this time. 

For those who wish to help people affected by the humanitarian crisis resulting from the October 2023 armed conflict in Israel and Gaza, we ask that they write “Middle East Humanitarian Crisis” in the memo line of a check and mail it with a completed donation form to the address on the form or to their local Red Cross chapter. Your donation will be used by the Red Cross Movement where it’s needed most to help all those in the impacted region.

Currently, the American Red Cross and our global Red Cross partners are not accepting donations of in-kind goods such as food, clothing or blankets. These items can be difficult to manage on the ground and divert resources from our mission. Other charitable organizations are better suited to manage such donations.  

For more information about how the global Red Cross Red Crescent Movement is assisting those affected, click here."