UN Human Rights Chief Condemns Killing of Humanitarian Workers in Gaza

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has strongly condemned an attack by the Israeli army on a medical and emergency convoy in Gaza, which resulted in the deaths of 15 humanitarian workers on March 23. The victims’ bodies were discovered eight days later in Rafah, buried near their destroyed vehicles, which were clearly marked.

Türk described the incident as “deeply disturbing” and raised concerns regarding the actions of the Israeli military during and after the attack. He emphasized that medical personnel and humanitarian workers must be protected under international humanitarian law and called for urgent measures to ensure their safety.

“This raises significant questions with regard to the conduct of the Israeli army during and in the aftermath of the incident,” Türk stated. “Such disappearances and killings raise serious concerns as tens of thousands of Palestinians need help while they are reportedly trapped in Tall Al-Sultan, Rafah, with the entire governorate under a displacement order.”

The UN official also underscored Israel’s obligations as an occupying power, stressing that it must protect civilians and guarantee access to basic services, including healthcare. He noted that his office has previously raised concerns over the detention and killing of medical and emergency personnel in Gaza, who operate under dire conditions. Over the past 18 months, hundreds of healthcare workers have been killed in the conflict.

Türk further called for the immediate clarification of the fate of a Palestinian Red Crescent Society member who remains missing. He urged an independent, prompt, and thorough investigation into the attack, insisting that those responsible for any violations of international law be held accountable.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with humanitarian agencies struggling to provide aid amid ongoing violence and severe restrictions on movement. The international community continues to press for adherence to international humanitarian laws and the protection of aid workers operating in conflict zones.