The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has confirmed that 22 people were killed in a shell attack on Friday, which severely damaged its office in Gaza. The office is situated amidst hundreds of displaced persons living in tents.
According to the ICRC, “heavy calibre projectiles” struck its office, causing significant structural damage. The organization further reported that 22 bodies and 45 wounded individuals were transported to a nearby Red Cross field hospital following the shelling, with additional casualties feared.
In response, the health ministry of Gaza, under Hamas control, attributed the attack to Israel, stating that 25 people had died and 50 were injured. The ministry claimed that Israeli shelling had targeted tents housing displaced persons in the Al-Mawasi area near the ICRC base.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson, however, denied any involvement in the incident while acknowledging that the matter was under review. The IDF stated to AFP that initial inquiries did not indicate IDF action in the humanitarian zone in Al-Mawasi.
The ICRC condemned the incident, emphasizing the danger posed by firing projectiles close to humanitarian structures marked with the Red Cross emblem. The organization expressed grave concern over recent security incidents, including stray bullets hitting ICRC facilities, endangering civilians and humanitarian personnel.
Amid escalating tensions, the ICRC reiterated calls for both Israel and Hamas to uphold international law, protect civilians, and respect humanitarian premises.
Mirjana Spoljaric, head of ICRC operations, urged all parties involved to prioritize civilian safety, stating, “Protecting civilians is the line between humanity and barbarity.”
