UN worker among victims as israeli forces strike Gaza relief center

The center, which is operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), was serving Palestinians facing starvation in the besieged enclave.

Juliette Touma, a spokesperson for UNRWA, stated that around 60 people were present at the warehouse when it was bombed by israeli forces. Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA Commissioner-General, condemned the attack, highlighting the critical shortage of food supplies in Gaza and the dire humanitarian situation.

The israel occupation forces (IOF) claimed that the strike targeted and killed an alleged Hamas commander, Mohammed Abu Hasna. However, UNRWA emphasized that the facility was clearly marked and its coordinates shared with the israeli army, raising concerns about the safety of humanitarian workers and facilities.

UNRWA reported a significant increase in violations against its staff and facilities by israeli forces, including attacks on personnel, destruction of facilities, and mistreatment of staff members in detention centers. Lazzarini emphasized the need for the protection of the United Nations and its personnel, stating that attacks on UN facilities constitute blatant disregard for international humanitarian law. (ILKHA)