Nov. 3, 2023
Dear Red Cross,
As you well know, in Gaza, there are 247 Israeli and international hostages that were kidnapped by Hamas, a terrorist organization four weeks ago. These hostages include men, women, children, babies and the elderly. Where is the Red Cross aid for these hostages? Where is your morality? Why are you not demanding the right to visit these hostages and supply infant formula, food, and medicine?
Your mandate is to help people in need. I expect you to carry out your mandate.
Sincerely,
Etta Kaner
Toronto, Canada
Nov. 10, 2023
Dear Mrs. Kaner
Thank you for your message.
The Swiss Red Cross is not itself active in Gaza. Within the Red Cross movement, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is mandated to carry out humanitarian work in conflict zones. Even now, the ICRC is on the job and has publicly and unequivocally condemned the hostage-taking as a violation of international humanitarian law. They must be released immediately. The ICRC is in direct contact with Hamas leadership, with the highest priority being the plight of the people being held hostage. The ICRC is making demands to see them. It is also demanding that they be able to contact their relatives. The ICRC has also made it clear that it stands ready to assist in any release.
I hope this information helps to answer your questions. For more information, please contact the ICRC directly: www.icrc.org
Best regards
Katharina Schindler
Head of Communication
International Cooperation
Swiss Red Cross