Over the years, the Israel’s humanitarian aid has served as a source of relief for people all over the world. From India and Turkey to Argentina, and the Philippines, Israel has lent a helping hand to dozens of countries hit by natural disasters.
Even as a young nation with poor economy, just five year after attaining Independence in 1948, Israel sent humanitarian aid to earthquake hit Greece in 1953.
When a five story building collapsed Nairobi, Kenya on 24 Januray 2006, Israel sent a team of 80 search and rescue personnel to assist with the rescue efforts, under the command of Maj. General Yitzhak Gershon, Chief of the Home Front Command.
Israel’s Humanitarian Delegation to the Philippines (2013)
On November 8, 2013, Typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines. An Israeli rescue delegation left for the Philippines and assisted civilians in Bogo City whose lives were uprooted by typhoon. Upon arrival, Israeli doctors immediately set up a field hospital, where they treated over 2,600 patients, performed 60 surgeries, delivered 36 babies, and worked on repairing schools damaged by the storm.
Turkey Earthquake (2011)
An October 2011 earthquake in Turkey killed at least 644 people and left thousands homeless while at least 17,480 were killed in August 1999 earthquake. Israel sent mobile homes & medical equipment for survivors at the request of the Turkish government
Haiti Earthquake (2010)
Following an earthquake that nearly destroyed Haiti's capital, Israel sent multiple medical & rescue teams to assist in operations and established the first field hospital in Port-au-Prince.
India (Gujarat) Earthquake (2001)
In January 2001, a massive earthquake hit western India. Israel sent 5 planes laden with over 65 tons of equipment and aid and 170 search and rescue personnel. The delegation set up one of the largest field hospitals in Buhj staffed with doctors, nurses, medical assistants and IDF and Magen David Adom paramedics, who treated roughly 1,300 casualties, delivered 12 babies and helped with S&R efforts in the field.