The Hope Caravan Foundation (Umut Kervanı Vakfı), a Türkiye-based humanitarian organization, was honored at the "Gaza, the Pulse of the Heart" conference in Amman, Jordan, for its significant relief efforts in Gaza and Palestine.

The event, held in collaboration with the Jordanian Doctors Association and the International Relief Association "Medics," was sponsored by His Royal Highness Prince Hassan Bin Talal and spanned two days.

The conference aimed to restore and strengthen vital health services in Gaza, bringing together international, regional, and local organizations dedicated to this cause. During the event, various projects were presented to address the pressing healthcare needs in the region.

Cengiz Kurtaran, President of the Hope Caravan Foundation, accepted a plaque on behalf of the organization in recognition of their commendable services in Gaza and Palestine. In his address, Kurtaran highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizing the collapse of the region's health system due to prolonged blockades and conflicts.

He provided alarming statistics to illustrate the devastation:

-A total of 162 health facilities, including 34 hospitals and 80 health centers, have been targeted and rendered unusable.

-Destruction of 136 ambulances has severely hampered access to emergency health services.

-Approximately 12,700 wounded individuals have been forced to seek treatment abroad, with many unable to do so due to the blockade.

-Around 12,500 cancer patients are at risk due to lack of access to appropriate treatment.

-Over 2 million people are struggling with infectious diseases stemming from inadequate access to clean water and poor hygiene conditions.

-Approximately 60,000 pregnant women face serious risks due to insufficient healthcare.

-About 350,000 individuals with chronic illnesses are unable to access essential treatments due to restrictions on medicine entry.

In response to these challenges, Kurtaran outlined the foundation's initiatives in the Gaza Strip:

Reconstruction of Health Facilities: The foundation plans to rebuild and reopen the Hind Al-Dughma Dialysis Centre at Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip. This facility aims to serve 100 dialysis patients daily, addressing the critical need for renal care in the region.

Provision of Medical Equipment and Ambulances: To replace the 136 ambulances destroyed in the conflict, the foundation has already sent seven new ambulances since October 7 and plans to provide additional units to restore emergency medical services.

Medical Support for Chronic Diseases: Recognizing the plight of patients with cancer, kidney failure, and other chronic conditions, the foundation is prioritizing the delivery of essential medicines and medical supplies to ensure continuity of care.

Food Security Initiatives: In collaboration with sister organizations, the foundation has been distributing food parcels and operating soup kitchens in both the northern and southern regions of Gaza. These efforts aim to alleviate hunger and provide nutritious meals to families affected by the conflict.

Hygiene and Sanitation Efforts: To combat the spread of infectious diseases exacerbated by poor living conditions, the foundation is distributing cleaning and hygiene materials to vulnerable populations.

Shelter and Housing Projects: Addressing the widespread destruction of homes, the foundation plans to provide shelter support by constructing 150 tented houses, along with schools, mosques, and playgrounds, on 10 decares of land in Gaza. This initiative aims to offer immediate relief and pave the way for the development of permanent housing solutions.

Educational Support for Children: Understanding the importance of education, the foundation is offering stationery, school supplies, and scholarships to ensure that children can continue their studies despite the disruptions caused by the conflict.

Psychological Rehabilitation Programs: To address the mental health needs of children traumatized by war, the foundation is organizing rehabilitation programs and activities designed to provide psychological support and promote emotional healing.

Kurtaran emphasized the importance of sustained support and solidarity, stating, "Every step and aid taken for Gaza will help our brothers and sisters in Gaza to hold on to life with more hope." He called for increased and continuous aid until Gaza is fully reconstructed and its people can live in peace and prosperity.

The Hope Caravan Foundation's recognition at the conference underscores the critical role of international collaboration in addressing the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and highlights the ongoing need for comprehensive support to rebuild the region's health infrastructure.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has been exacerbated by prolonged conflict and blockades, leading to significant challenges in healthcare delivery. According to the World Health Organization, over a 300-day period, the Gaza Strip witnessed more than 39,500 fatalities and approximately 91,000 injuries, underscoring the severe impact of violence on local communities.

The destruction of healthcare facilities and the shortage of medical supplies have left many patients without necessary care. Reports indicate that there are approximately 350,000 patients in Gaza with chronic conditions, such as cancer and diabetes, in addition to 50,000 pregnant women who are struggling to access necessary care.

In response to these challenges, various international organizations have intensified their efforts to provide aid to Gaza. For instance, the Zakat Foundation of America launched the "Caravan of Hope" initiative, aiming to provide one million meals to Palestinians in Gaza.

Despite these efforts, the situation remains dire. The prolonged conflict has led to severe food shortages and widespread malnutrition, affecting 96% of the population. The recent ceasefire has provided a glimmer of hope, allowing for the scaling up of food distribution and support for local food production.

The international community continues to call for sustained support and solidarity to address the pressing needs in Gaza. (ILKHA)