The United Nations has announced a reduction of its international staff in Gaza by approximately one third following Israeli strikes that have resulted in the deaths of hundreds of civilians, including U.N. personnel.
U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric stated that this measure, involving the withdrawal of around 30 of the 100 international staff currently in Gaza, is being taken for security and operational reasons. He emphasized that it is a temporary measure, expressing hope that staff will return to Gaza as soon as possible.
Dujarric affirmed that the U.N. is not exiting Gaza. He noted that the Secretary-General made a difficult decision amid soaring humanitarian needs and growing concerns for civilian protection. The organization remains dedicated to providing essential aid for civilian survival and protection.
He provided details on a recent incident involving a U.N. compound in Deir Al Balah, which was reportedly struck on March 19, injuring six individuals from various countries. Dujarric indicated that the strikes originated from an Israeli tank and highlighted that the location of the U.N. compound was well-known to both parties involved in the conflict. The Secretary-General has called for a full, thorough, and independent investigation.
While Gaza's health ministry attributed the strike to Israel, the Israeli military denied this claim, asserting that the target was a Hamas site preparing to fire into Israeli territory. When asked if the U.N. believed the compound was deliberately targeted, Dujarric noted the importance of a clear and transparent investigation, pointing out that the Israelis were aware of the U.N. facility's location when it was hit.
The Israeli military reported that its forces acted in Rafah due to incorrect identification of a target, which resulted in damage to an aid organization's office from an explosive projectile.