International Fellowship Provides Ambulances to Aid Christian and Druze Communities in Syria

Lifesaving Support for Syrian Communities

In a significant move to address the urgent needs of religious minority communities in Syria, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ) has recently expanded its humanitarian efforts. Amidst ongoing violence and instability, the organization has delivered five refurbished ambulances to assist both Christian and Druze communities residing near Israel's northern border. This initiative is crucial as it significantly enhances emergency medical response capabilities in areas where access to medical assistance is alarmingly limited.

The ambulances, which were formerly part of Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel's national emergency medical service, are equipped with essential medical kits provided by IFCJ. This ensures that emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and healthcare professionals are prepared to meet the urgent medical needs of local residents. Following the transfer of these vehicles, comprehensive training in first-aid and emergency response was conducted by MDA EMTs. The training focused on the proper use of the ambulances and their medical equipment, thereby reinforcing the quality of care provided in this region.

This initiative embodies a wider strategy to protect life and dignity within a region marked by a deepening humanitarian crisis. Yael Eckstein, President and CEO of The Fellowship, emphasized the importance of this partnership between Christians and Jews: "The Druze community is an inseparable part of Israel’s society and security. We cannot afford to be indifferent when they face persecution. We are called to act, protect life, and offer hope."

The delivery of ambulances complements a broader effort by IFCJ to support these minority communities in southern Syria, who have suffered severe attacks in recent years. In 2025, the organization’s work included establishing two regional medical clinics within the buffer zone, delivering vital medical supplies to hospitals in the Al-Suwayda region, and distributing thousands of food packages to families grappling with basic necessities amidst the chaos of recent attacks.

During the ceremony marking the ambulance handover, notable attendees included MDA's Deputy Director General of Operations, Gil Moskovitz, and senior officials from both IFCJ and MDA. Safwan Marich, head of The Fellowship's Emergency and Security Division and a member of the Druze community, expressed pride in his involvement with this lifesaving initiative. He noted: "It reflects our shared values with Magen David Adom to save lives and stand with those in need, and I'm grateful to all our partners who worked tirelessly to make this possible."

IFCJ has a long-standing commitment to aiding persecuted Christian communities in the region. Initiatives have ranged from providing food boxes to needy Christians in Israel during the Christmas season to funding critical medical facilities, such as a hospital in Nazareth. Over the years, the organization has played a vital role in delivering humanitarian assistance and care, particularly during attacks from ISIS, standing in solidarity with vulnerable communities along Israel’s borders.

For over 40 years, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews has served as a bridge connecting Christians and Jews, aiding Israel and the Jewish people globally with humanitarian assistance. In the past year alone, the Fellowship has reached approximately two million individuals living in poverty and has significantly contributed to strengthening Israel's security infrastructure. To learn more about the meaningful work of The Fellowship, visit www.ifcj.org.

Yael Eckstein, the organization’s President and Global CEO, is a leading figure in humanitarian efforts and a respected voice in Jewish leadership. Recognized for her contributions to Israel's public diplomacy, Eckstein's dedication continues to inspire countless individuals seeking to support those in need.