UN in Gaza: Reduction in operations within Gaza – journalist killed
The United Nations has announced a reduction in its operations within the Gaza Strip following an attack on one of its facilities. According to reports, an Israeli tank fired upon a UN office, prompting the organization to reassess its presence in the region.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of hostilities affecting humanitarian efforts in Gaza. Notably, Israeli air strikes have previously targeted UN facilities, resulting in casualties among UN staff and hindering the delivery of essential aid to Palestinian civilians, according to press.un.org
The escalation of violence has severely impacted the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has reported that over 150 of its facilities have been hit, with some completely destroyed, including schools. Additionally, more than 400 individuals seeking shelter under the UN flag have been killed.
The international community has expressed grave concern over these developments. The UN Security Council highlighted the alarming number of humanitarian personnel casualties in Gaza, noting that at least 224 aid workers have been killed during the ongoing conflict, a figure surpassing any other recorded conflict in a single year, according to press.un.org
In light of these challenges, the UN’s decision to scale back its footprint in Gaza underscores the precarious conditions under which humanitarian organizations operate. This move also reflects the urgent need for measures to ensure the safety and security of aid workers and facilities in conflict zones.
The situation in Gaza remains critical, with ongoing hostilities exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The international community continues to call for the protection of civilians and the safeguarding of humanitarian operations to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the conflict.
During an Israeli airstrike today, several people were killed, among them Al Jazeera journalist Hossam Shabat.
BBC reports that over 50,000 civilians have been killed in Gaza since the beginning of this war.
