Emergency aid Gaza Strip, West Bank, Jordan

On October 7, 2023, the conflict between Israel and armed Palestinian groups, in particular Hamas, began. This escalation led to a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented proportions , particularly in the Gaza Strip, but also with a significant impact on the West Bank and Jordan.

On October 10, 2025, a US-brokered ceasefire came into force. According to the agreement, the following activities should now take place: Increased humanitarian aid, release of hostages and prisoners. The critical situation is very fragile.

All children in the Gaza Strip need psychological and psychosocial support. Around one million children are affected by depression, anxiety disorders and suicidal thoughts and need urgent help. More than 17,000 children are unaccompanied or separated from their parents. The destruction of homes, communities, social networks and family cohesion further exacerbates the traumatic experiences. Experts also expect considerable consequences for development: many children are likely to experience a delay of up to five years in their school development.

Gaza and West Bank: According to the Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip and OCHA, there were at least 68,234 deaths (including more than a quarter of children) and over 170,373 injuries by October 2025. According to UNRWA, around 1.9 million people, around 90% of the population of the Gaza Strip, are internally displaced. 85% have already been displaced several times and live in overcrowded, unsafe accommodation (often simple tents). Houses, schools, medical facilities and vital infrastructure have been damaged or completely destroyed.

SOS Children's Villages has been on the ground in Gaza, the West Bank and Jordan for years, providing vital aid, psychological support and a home for orphans. The most important measures include:

• Life-saving access to basic supplies of food, medicine and hygiene items

• Provision of emergency care services for unaccompanied or separated children

• Psychological support for children and families

• Educational programs for children

Gaza Strip: The focus of the next steps is on restoring safety and prospects. There is an urgent need to reunite separated families, provide comprehensive psychosocial support and emergency assistance such as food and medical care. The SOS Children's Villages also focus on programs that give children hope and stability through education, recreational activities and support in everyday life.

West Bank: In addition to integrating the evacuated children, the SOS Children's Village Bethlehem also continues its work with the children who were already living there. Psychological help, educational initiatives and closely coordinated programs with local partners such as schools and ministries ensure holistic care for all children.

Jordan: The aim is to provide 120 children and their families in the SOS Children's Villages in Jordan with life-saving treatment and safe accommodation as well as comprehensive psychosocial and social support. The project closes a crucial care gap for particularly vulnerable children from the Gaza Strip and their mothers.