Emergency Response in Israel

This page will be updated frequently to reflect HIAS’ response to this developing crisis.
Latest update: November 6, 2023.

Nearly a month after the unprecedented October 7 terrorist incursion into Israel, the impact continues to be felt across the country. As families grieve the more than 1,400 lives lost, and authorities work to identify the bodies of those murdered in the brutal attacks, rockets continue to target heavily populated civilian centers across the country — and an estimated 240 people are still being held hostage in Gaza. An estimated 200,000-250,000 Israelis have been internally displaced, including dozens of communities near the Gaza Strip and along the border with Lebanon, where increased tensions have led the government to issue evacuation orders.

HIAS has worked in Israel since 1950, developing strong knowledge of the operating environment and a powerful network of local partners across the country. Within 24 hours of the brutal attacks, HIAS activated its Emergency Response to provide life-saving support to those displaced in Israel, including critical information to asylum seekers and displaced families. 

Humanitarian needs 

HIAS emergency response teams assessed displaced communities and consulted with local and national NGOs within 48 hours of the attacks. Assessments confirmed the need for coordinated and sustained basic needs including cash assistance, counseling and psychosocial support, and an array of protection programs for the displaced, especially children and displaced persons who fall outside of government support, such as refugees and migrant workers. Like many rapid onset emergencies, there is a swell of community-organized services and support for those displaced. However, more sustainable solutions are needed as teams prepare for the days and weeks ahead.   

HIAS emergency response  

HIAS began with emergency protection services and shelter assistance and has now expanded its response to include cash assistance, provision of food and household items, and psychosocial support services. Remote vulnerable communities that were forcibly displaced from the attacks in the South, including Eritrean families who had been seeking asylum in Israel before the crisis, are especially at risk. HIAS is providing:

• Urgent items such as hygiene supplies, blankets, school supplies, and dignity kits
• Cash and voucher assistance to those affected by the crisis, especially those in shelters
• Help through local partners for additional health, protection, housing/shelter, and legal services
• Mental health and psychosocial support
• Child protection
• Referrals and information for additional services

HIAS has over 20 national partnerships, which are being reconfigured to support urgent needs, and has also formed new partnerships during this emergency.