In a tragic escalation of violence, the Palestine Red Crescent Society has announced that one of its workers was killed and three others injured following an attack on their headquarters in Gaza, attributed to Israeli military forces. The incident, described by the organization as "deliberate," underscores a deteriorating humanitarian situation amidst ongoing conflicts and a blockade on aid.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Gaza Following Deadly Attack on Aid HQ
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Gaza Following Deadly Attack on Aid HQ
The Palestine Red Crescent Society reports a deadly incident involving Israeli military forces, adding urgency to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) has condemned Israeli forces for a recent attack on its headquarters in Gaza, resulting in the death of one worker and injuries to three others. The assault, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning in Khan Younis, ignited a fire within the building and has been labeled “deliberate” by the humanitarian organization. The PRCS stated that the location of their HQ is well-known to the Israeli military and is clearly marked with the protective red emblem.
In response to inquiries regarding the incident, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed ignorance of any artillery or air strikes occurring at that time. Video evidence shared by the Red Crescent on social media depicted flames engulfing parts of the building, accompanied by heavy smoke, while photographs captured the extensive damage and visible bloodstains.
The Red Crescent identified the deceased worker as Omar Isleem, expressing deep sorrow over his loss. The organization reiterated its call for accountability regarding the protection of humanitarian and medical personnel amid escalating violence. The harrowing event comes against the backdrop of a deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with the latest United Nations reports indicating at least 1,373 Palestinians have been killed seeking food since late May, primarily due to confrontations with Israeli military near distribution sites.
Contrary to UN figures, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) has disputed claims that at least 859 individuals perished near its aid centers, while Israel accused Hamas of causing chaos near these sites. As tensions rise, two lorries carrying much-needed fuel await entry into Gaza, where medical facilities are grappling with critical shortages, exacerbated by a prolonged blockade on aid and goods. The Hamas-run health ministry has reported that malnutrition has resulted in 175 deaths, including 93 children.
Though there has been a partial lifting of the blockade, humanitarian organizations stress that further aid is necessary to avert worsening famine and malnutrition. The IDF's military campaign in Gaza has intensified following a devastating attack by Hamas on southern Israel in October, which claimed around 1,200 lives and led to numerous hostages. The ongoing conflict has reportedly resulted in over 60,000 fatalities in Gaza, according to health ministry sources.
