UN scales back Gaza presence after deadly shelling incident
The UN has announced a reduction in international staff in the Gaza Strip. This decision comes after shelling attributed to Israel that resulted in the death of one UN staff member.
The United Nations has decided to reduce the number of international staff in the Gaza Strip. This decision is a response to the shelling attributed to Israel. In the attack, one UN staff member was killed and five people were injured.
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric stated that the number of international workers will be reduced by about one-third, meaning approximately 30 people will leave the Gaza Strip. Dujarric emphasized that this decision is temporary and is based on security and operational reasons.
— We hope to have people return to Gaza as soon as practicable — said Stéphane Dujarric, as quoted by the UN Press Realeses.
Reaction to the shelling
The shelling that took place last week targeted a UN complex in the town of Deir al-Balah. According to available information, the attack was carried out from an Israeli tank. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has demanded a thorough investigation into the incident.
— The location of this UN compound was well known to all the parties to the conflict — emphasized Dujarric.
The Gaza Strip's Ministry of Health, led by Hamas, blamed Israel for the attack. Israel rejected these accusations, claiming the target was a Hamas facility where preparations were being made to shell Israeli territory. Dujarric noted that the UN does not rule out that the attack on the complex may have been deliberate, which underscores the need for a clear and transparent investigation. The UN remains committed to providing humanitarian aid, as the needs in the Gaza Strip are rising significantly.
— We remain committed to continuing to provide aid that civilians depend on for their survival and protection — added Dujarric.
