Red Cross Centenary - 35 millieme
This commemorative stamp was issued in 1963 for use in the Gaza Strip under the administration of the United Arab Republic (UAR) to mark the global centenary of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (1863–1963). Founded in Geneva, Switzerland, by Henry Dunant, the movement's 100th anniversary was celebrated worldwide through a coordinated international philatelic program. By releasing this dedicated issue inscribed with "PALESTINE," the postal administration emphasized the local population's alignment with universal humanitarian principles, international medical relief, and global civic solidarity.
Reflecting regional identity, the design features a prominent Red Crescent—the recognized humanitarian symbol utilized across the Arab and Islamic worlds in place of the Red Cross to signify impartial medical aid, neutrality, and human dignity during times of conflict and peace. Nestled inside the crescent is a stylized sailboat (felucca), flanked by olive branches symbolizing peace, hope, and resilience. Circulating widely on domestic and international mail, this issue acted as a miniature ambassador of goodwill, projecting Palestine's active integration into the global network of humanitarian relief and international cooperation.
Reflecting regional identity, the design features a prominent Red Crescent—the recognized humanitarian symbol utilized across the Arab and Islamic worlds in place of the Red Cross to signify impartial medical aid, neutrality, and human dignity during times of conflict and peace. Nestled inside the crescent is a stylized sailboat (felucca), flanked by olive branches symbolizing peace, hope, and resilience. Circulating widely on domestic and international mail, this issue acted as a miniature ambassador of goodwill, projecting Palestine's active integration into the global network of humanitarian relief and international cooperation.