Thomas White, the Director of UNRWA Affairs in Gaza, has recently reported that Khan Yunis, Gaza’s second-largest city and the site of the agency’s compound, was subject to an attack that resulted in “mass casualties.” The compound, which was clearly marked with a UN flag, served as a sanctuary for many individuals displaced by warfare. The attack, which involved tank fire, led to the death of at least 13 people and the injury of a further 56, 21 of whom are in critical condition, according to the report from Jurist News.
The compound was assumed to provide a safe place for those in need, and the attack on it has escalated an already acute humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The UNRWA shelter reportedly houses an estimated 43,000 internally displaced people, greatly exceeding capacity.
The UNRWA managed to evacuate 45 people after its emergency teams and ambulances were initially denied access to the site. However, due to the crumbling health system, it is increasingly difficult to find facilities to treat the injured.
Under Article 7 of the Convention on the Safety of United Nations and Associated Personnel, UN workers and those assisting them are granted protection. It is stated that these personnel and their premises ought not to be attacked or impeded in carrying out their mandate. Notably, the State of Palestine is a party to this Convention, Israel, however, is not.
The attacks on the compound have been condemned by the US, a key supporter and ally of Israel. Adrienne Watson, spokesperson for the National Security Council, expressed deep concern about the loss of life in Khan Yunis and called for Israel to adhere to international humanitarian law in its conflict with Hamas.
Israel defends its position by denying responsibility for the attack. An initial statement portrayed the compound as a Hamas base, but a subsequent announcement reported that a review of their operational systems revealed they had not assaulted the compound. They are currently investigating Hamas for that action.
Israel’s actions, including attacks on medical facilities, refugee camps, and the alleged war crimes, have led to the death of more than 25,000 people. These ongoing accusations continue to spark international criticism and debate on Israel’s military operations in civilian areas.