Family members detained or killed

“Our patients are people who have been injured, have had family members detained or killed, or have had their homes destroyed or raided,” explains Juan Carlos Cano, MSF general coordinator in Jerusalem.

Tear gas and small bombs for searches

The military operation to locate the three young Israeli settlers who disappeared on 12 June involves controls (checkpoints) on streets and highways, house-to-house searches and movement restrictions for the population which is affecting normal activity in schools and businesses, and hampers access to health facilities. According to several patients, dogs are used in some of the incursions, and tear gas or small bombs are used to blow open the doors.

Psychological assistance

Since the beginning of the intervention, the MSF teams have given first psychological assistance to 200 people, and have done psycho-education and counseling group sessions with 654 people. Children are the most affected and are at risk of developing psychosomatic symptom such as enuresis, sleeping problems and constant worry. Psychologists will follow upon patients who may potentially suffer from post-traumatic symptoms.

Specialised needs

Psychosocial workers also refer cases to other organisations for more specialised needs (medical and social) and MSF has provided food parcels to some families whose houses have been demolished.

Military operations are also ongoing in Nablus district. MSF is present in the area and is monitoring and assessing the psychological needs in order to respond according.