Statement on Rafah by Michelle Nunn, President and CEO of CARE:
May 6, 2024 – “In the name of our shared humanity, all governments and global actors must stand together against further military action in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Since Oct. 7, more than 34,600 Palestinians have been reported killed and almost 78,000 wounded, with many more missing and presumed dead. Some 1.7 million people – more than 80% of Gaza’s population – have been displaced. Approximately 1.5 million of them have sought a refuge of last resort in Rafah, where they already face apocalyptic living conditions. Thousands are now being told to evacuate and there’s nowhere safe left to go.
One mother told CARE today: “We have just left our home here in Rafah. It is the fifth time we are displaced. Since this morning, the bombing and the sound of artillery have not stopped. You can see women and children everywhere, running around on the streets, not knowing where to go. Everyone has the fear of death in their eyes. We are all in shock, yet have to focus so we know what to do so we can survive.”
Further military operations in Rafah will worsen the catastrophic civilian suffering. We call again for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and full, safe, and unhindered restoration of humanitarian aid.”
For media inquiries, please contact: usa.media@care.org