UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations has initiated an investigation into an attack on a U.N. vehicle in Rafah, resulting in the death of its first international staff member in Gaza since October 7.
The victim, identified as retired Indian Army officer Waibhav Anil Kale, was associated with the U.N. Department of Safety and Security. He was traveling with a coworker who was hurt in the incident to the European Hospital in Rafah.
Following the tragic event, India’s foreign ministry announced its involvement in facilitating the investigation and repatriation of Kale’s remains. Meanwhile, Israel’s military operations in southern Gaza, particularly in Rafah, have escalated, prompting concerns from international allies and aid organizations regarding the safety of civilians and humanitarian workers.
In response to Kale’s death and the escalating conflict, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the release of hostages. Palestinian health authorities reported significant casualties and displacement resulting from Israel’s ground and air campaign in Gaza.
The U.N. has established a fact-finding panel to determine accountability for the attack, although details are still being verified with the Israeli Defense Force. Despite ongoing efforts to evacuate civilians from affected areas, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with hundreds of thousands displaced and seeking refuge.
