The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has made an urgent call for a ceasefire and the protection of civilians in Gaza following the tragic deaths of two of its personnel during recent Israeli airstrikes. These strikes, which occurred on May 24, resulted in the deaths of Ibrahim Eid, an ICRC weapon contamination officer, and Ahmad Abu Hilal, a security guard stationed at the Red Cross Field Hospital in Rafah. The ICRC has emphasized the need for the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers amidst the ongoing conflict, expressing its profound concern over the safety of its operations and personnel in the region (see details).
Underlining the legal obligations of conflict parties, the ICRC highlighted provisions under international humanitarian law that mandate the distinction between civilians and combatants. Article 48 of Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions establishes that military operations should be directed solely against military targets. Furthermore, Article 18 of the Fourth Geneva Convention mandates the protection of humanitarian operations, ensuring the safety and visibility of civilian hospitals and their staff to prevent potential harm (read more). These legal frameworks are crucial in mitigating the impact of military actions on civilians and humanitarian workers, especially in conflict zones like Gaza.
This call for a ceasefire comes amid heightened tensions and incidents in Gaza. In March 2025, an ICRC office in Gaza was struck by an explosive projectile due to what was attributed to incorrect identification by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Although there were no casualties, the ICRC condemned the incident as it significantly affected their capacity to perform humanitarian functions within the region (full report).
The current humanitarian situation has prompted extended efforts by the ICRC, which, in response to the escalating crisis, established a field hospital in Rafah in May 2024 to provide crucial emergency services to hundreds of patients daily. This hospital underscores the organization’s commitment to addressing the profound healthcare needs of the Gazan population amidst the conflict (more on this initiative).