An Indian personnel working with the United Nations became the first international casualty in Gaza since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The individual, a former Indian Army personnel, was killed in Rafah when the vehicle he was traveling in came under attack.
The victim, a staff member of the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (DSS), was on his way to the European Hospital in Rafah when the incident occurred. Another DSS staffer was also injured in the attack.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep sadness over the death of the UN staff member and called for a full investigation into the incident. He condemned all attacks on UN personnel and sent his condolences to the victim’s family.
Guterres reiterated his urgent appeal for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all hostages. He emphasized the need to protect humanitarian workers in conflict zones.
The Director-General of the World Health Organization also expressed devastation over the death of the UN humanitarian worker and called for a ceasefire to work towards peace.
The incident marks the first international casualty among UN staff in Gaza, highlighting the dangers faced by humanitarian workers in the region. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported a high number of casualties on both sides since the conflict began.