Indian UN Aid Worker Killed in Gaza
An Indian United Nations staff member has been killed in Gaza, making it the first international casualty for the organization since the start of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The staff member, who has yet to be identified, was part of the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (DSS) and was traveling to the European Hospital in Rafah when their vehicle was attacked.
The incident occurred on Monday morning, when the UN vehicle was struck as it traveled to the hospital. Another DSS staffer was injured in the attack. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack and called for a full investigation. He also reiterated his urgent appeal for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the release of all hostages.
Condemnation and Investigation
Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for the Secretary-General, issued a statement condemning all attacks on UN personnel and calling for a full investigation. Guterres expressed his condolences to the family of the fallen staff member.
International Casualty
This is the first international casualty among UN staff in Gaza since the beginning of the conflict. While there have been international casualties involving workers for the World Central Kitchen in Gaza, this is the first known fatality involving UN staff.
Mounting Casualties
The conflict in Gaza has taken a heavy toll on both civilians and humanitarian workers. Since October 7, at least 35,091 Palestinians have been killed and 78,827 injured. More than 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals, including 33 children, have also been killed in Israel.
Call for Accountability
The UN has vowed to set up measures for accountability and work with authorities on the ground to obtain restitution for those who have been killed.
WHO Expresses Devastation
The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed devastation over the death of the UN aid worker. He called for a ceasefire and urged all parties to work towards peace.
