A tragic blow to humanitarian efforts in Gaza has raised fresh global concern. The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) has reported that its headquarters in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, came under direct attack by Israeli forces, resulting in the death of an aid worker and injuries to three others.
The organization claimed the strike caused a massive fire, damaging the building severely. In a strongly worded statement, PRCS said the building was clearly marked with red cross symbols—symbols internationally recognized as protective emblems for humanitarian workers.
Videos shared by PRCS showed the facility engulfed in smoke, with debris scattered and bloodstains visible throughout the wreckage. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), while not directly confirming the strike, acknowledged reviewing the situation and mentioned that civilians in the area might have been unintentionally affected.
The fallen aid worker was identified as Omar Isleem. PRCS emphasized that multiple floors were targeted in rapid succession, even while teams were evacuating and battling the fire—raising concerns that the strike may have been intentional.
So far, over 50 PRCS personnel have died in the line of duty since the war began, according to the organization. The UN Human Rights Office expressed “shock and outrage,” demanding a transparent and independent investigation into repeated attacks on emergency workers.
Meanwhile, humanitarian conditions in Gaza remain dire. Reports from Al-Awda hospital and GHF aid distribution centers describe further fatalities and injuries due to Israeli fire. The UN estimates over 1,370 Palestinians have died while trying to obtain food, many of them near aid drop sites.
While Israel denies targeting civilians and blames Hamas for inciting chaos, global pressure is mounting for more accountability. Fuel shortages persist, and medical supplies are critically low, exacerbated by months of blockade.
Since the war began in October 2023, more than 60,000 Palestinians have died, the majority being civilians, according to Gaza’s health ministry.