UN staff pullout from Gaza after deadly shelling incident
The UN has announced a reduction in international staff in the Gaza Strip. The decision follows shelling attributed to Israel, which resulted in the death of one UN worker.
The United Nations has decided to reduce the number of international staff in the Gaza Strip. This decision is in response to the shelling attributed to Israel. During the attack, one UN worker was killed, and five people were injured.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stated that the number of international staff will be reduced by about one-third. This means that approximately 30 staff members will leave the Gaza Strip. Dujarric emphasised that this decision is temporary and is due to safety and operational considerations.
— We hope to have people return to Gaza as soon as practicable — added Stephane Dujarric, as quoted by the UN Press Realeses.
Reaction to the shelling
The shelling, which occurred last week, targeted a UN complex in the town of Deir al-Balah. According to information available, the attack was carried out by an Israeli tank. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a thorough investigation into this incident.
— The location of this UN compound was well known to all the parties to the conflict — emphasised Dujarric.
The Gaza Strip Ministry of Health, led by Hamas, accused Israel of the attack. Israel denied these accusations, claiming that the target was a Hamas facility where preparations were being made for an attack on Israeli territory. Dujarric noted that the UN does not rule out the possibility that the attack on the complex might have been intentional, which is a key reason why a clear and transparent investigation is necessary. The UN remains committed to delivering humanitarian aid, as needs in the Gaza Strip are rapidly increasing.
— We remain committed to continuing to provide aid that civilians depend on for their survival and protection — added Dujarric.
