Newsthink: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory

The ongoing conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory escalated on Saturday 7 October 2023, affecting communities on both sides.

Use this teaching resource, based on photographs taken by Magen David Adom in Israel and the Palestine Red Crescent Society of their ambulance crews responding to the recent violence and explore the importance of International Humanitarian Law – the rules of war.

Learning objectives

1. Learn about the humanitarian consequences of armed conflicts. 
2. Apply your learning and practise empathy to understand why following International Humanitarian Law – the rules of war – is an important way to reduce suffering during armed conflicts. 
3. Share your learning by discussing a statement and showing active listening skills.  
   
   

How do I use this resource?

Explore events unfolding in Israel and Gaza through a humanitarian lens. Use two photos to explore the impact conflicts have on people and the importance of the rules of war. Download the PowerPoint above to deliver the activities. Use one, some or all the activities, depending on your needs. Each one can be done in ten to fifteen minutes. Embed this activity into your lessons or use it in assembly or tutor time to engage learners with current events and humanitarian news.

Resource overview

Explore the photos of ambulance crews of Magen David Adom and the Palestine Red Crescent Society helping wounded people in Israel and Gaza and ask learners to analyse what they see using the “see, think, feel” framework. 

1. Debate the statements: “It is ok for fighters to target medics who provide first aid to the enemy" and “It is important for medics to help wounded civilians and fighters from both sides”. Do learners agree or disagree? Why? 
2. Encourage learners to reflect on their values and opinions in their own time. 
3. Explore what further actions people can take to learn more about the rules of war, or how to support the people affected. 
   
   
   For questions or feedback about this resource, contact us at redcrosseducation@redcross.org.uk.