UN Launches Investigation into Deadly Strike on UN Car in Gaza, Killing Indian Staff Member
The UN is investigating the death of a retired Indian Army officer, Waibhav Anil Kale, who was working with the UN Department of Safety and Security and was killed in a strike on a UN car in Rafah, Gaza, on Monday.
Kale was en route to the European Hospital with a colleague, who was also injured.
Israel has been increasing its military presence in Rafah, where over a million people have sought shelter, and has been attacking the area heavily.
The international community and aid groups have urged against a ground incursion into Rafah, where Hamas forces are believed to be present.
Israel is determined to eliminate the remaining militants following the death of a senior Islamic Jihad commander, Khalil Al-Hayeh.
The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has appealed for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the release of hostages, expressing concern over the heavy toll the conflict in Gaza is taking on civilians and humanitarian workers.
According to Palestinian health authorities, over 35,000 people have been killed and most of the population of 2.3 million have been displaced since Israel's military campaign began on October 7, 2020.
The UN has initiated a fact-finding panel to determine responsibility for the attack on Al-Hayeh.
The investigation is ongoing, and details are still being verified with the Israeli Defense Force.
A UN staff member named Sudhakar Kale from India was killed in Gaza during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
There are 71 international UN staff members in Gaza currently.
Israel launched the operation after an attack by Hamas-led gunmen that resulted in over 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.
Civilians have been ordered to evacuate parts of Rafah, and over 450,000 people have fled Gaza since May 6, according to UNRWA.
India's UN mission confirmed Kale's identity and expressed sadness over his loss.