In the wake of a long-awaited ceasefire following months of brutal aggression in Gaza, Cengiz Kurtaran, President of the Hope Caravan Foundation (Umut Kervanı Vakfı), has called on philanthropists to intensify support for critical humanitarian projects in the besieged territory.

Speaking to ILKHA, Kurtaran detailed the ongoing aid work—including the repair of a vital dialysis centre, the establishment of tent cities, and the construction of a 24-hour soup kitchen—that aims to provide long-term relief for Palestinians suffering from the legacy of destruction and occupation.

Kurtaran highlighted that the Foundation has been working relentlessly since the onset of the “Aqsa Flood Operation” on October 7, 2023—a day marked by what he described as the "destruction and genocide launched by the occupiers against Gaza." In response to this catastrophe, the Hope Caravan has shifted from immediate relief to projects designed to create permanent infrastructure following the ceasefire.

One of the cornerstone projects is the repair and reactivation of the Hind Al-Dughma Dialysis Centre at Nasser Medical Hospital. “We have signed a protocol for the repair of the dialysis centre and the purchase of the necessary medical devices,” Kurtaran said. Once operational, the centre is expected to perform up to 280 dialysis sessions daily, a crucial service for Gaza’s patients. “If possible, we will also send our doctors to Gaza, so that our brothers and sisters can receive the health services they desperately need,” he added.

In a region where homes have been obliterated, Hope Caravan is working to build tent cities that can shelter hundreds of families. “There is an urgent need for tent cities in Gaza, because we have brothers and sisters whose houses have been completely destroyed,” Kurtaran explained. The Foundation has already initiated work on one tent city, with plans to complete it within 20-25 days, and is launching a second in response to overwhelming demand. These tent cities will not only provide shelter but also include dedicated areas for education, worship, and children's playgrounds, with water and electricity supplied through solar energy. Looking ahead, the Foundation anticipates a significant need for container housing to offer more permanent shelter solutions.

In addition to shelter and medical aid, the Foundation is spearheading the construction of a soup kitchen intended to operate 24 hours a day, ensuring that hot meals are available continuously—an especially critical service during the approaching holy month of Ramadan. “Especially in Ramadan, we hope to establish a soup kitchen that serves both at sahur and iftar,” Kurtaran stated. The project is part of a broader mobilization call for humanitarian assistance, as Kurtaran stressed the dire need for fuel, flour, and other essential life products in Gaza. Recently, a lorry of shoes successfully reached Gaza via Egypt, and more shipments of shoes, food, hygiene materials, and blankets are planned, contingent on support from generous benefactors.

Looking to the future, Kurtaran expressed a firm belief in the resilience and determination of the Palestinian people. “We hope that social housing will be built quickly. If peace prevails in Gaza, I believe that as an ummah, we will reconstruct Gaza more beautifully than before—even within two years,” he said. “We will do our part in this regard.” His call to action resonated as a powerful reminder that, despite the immense suffering inflicted by occupation and war, the spirit of the Palestinian people remains unbroken.

As Hope Caravan continues its work to lay the foundation for lasting recovery, Kurtaran’s appeal to philanthropists is clear: “It is time to mobilise for Gaza. We should extend a helping hand to our brothers and sisters during these blessed months as Ramadan approaches.” His message underscores an urgent plea for solidarity and humanitarian support to rebuild Gaza—not just as a temporary relief measure, but as a step toward restoring dignity, stability, and hope for the future of the Palestinian people.

Through these comprehensive efforts, Hope Caravan aims to transform the aftermath of tragedy into a path of resilience and renewal, reaffirming the commitment of the international ummah to stand with Gaza in its quest for recovery and justice. (ILKHA)