*** UN Condemns Deadly Strikes in Gaza, Calls for Immediate Ceasefire | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

UN Condemns Deadly Strikes in Gaza, Calls for Immediate Ceasefire

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The United Nations has strongly condemned Israel’s recent military strikes in Gaza, which have killed hundreds of civilians, including UN personnel. The escalating violence, combined with a complete blockade on humanitarian aid since early March, has led the UN Secretary-General to make the difficult decision to scale back the organization’s presence in the region, even as humanitarian needs reach critical levels.

Despite this reduction, the UN has emphasized that it is not abandoning Gaza and remains committed to providing essential aid and protection to civilians. However, the ongoing Israeli offensive and the severe restrictions on relief efforts have heightened concerns over the safety of both aid workers and the local population.

One of the most alarming incidents occurred on 19 March, when a UN compound in Deir Al Balah was struck, reportedly by an Israeli tank. The attack resulted in the death of a Bulgarian UN staff member and left six others—hailing from France, Moldova, North Macedonia, Palestine, and the United Kingdom—severely injured, with some suffering life-altering wounds. The UN has reiterated that the compound's location was well known to all parties involved in the conflict and has demanded a full, thorough, and independent investigation into the incident.

With the Israeli government signaling its intent to continue military operations, the UN has renewed its urgent call for all parties to uphold international law, ensure the protection of civilians, and restore humanitarian access. The Secretary-General has also urged world leaders to use diplomatic and economic measures to halt the conflict, end impunity, and work towards an immediate ceasefire.

“The denial of lifesaving aid must end. The hostages must be released immediately and unconditionally,” the UN statement read, calling on the international community to take decisive action to prevent further loss of life and suffering.