UN Scales Down Gaza Staff Amid Rising Conflict Tensions

The United Nations is reducing its international staff in Gaza due to security concerns following Israeli strikes that have killed civilians and UN personnel. The reduction is temporary, and the UN aims to continue its humanitarian aid efforts in the region despite the challenges.

The United Nations announced a significant reduction in its international staff presence in Gaza, following recent Israeli strikes within the region that resulted in casualties among civilians and UN personnel. This decision affects approximately one-third of the current staff stationed in the enclave, according to UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

Dujarric clarified during a news briefing that the measure, while temporary, is driven by security and operational concerns, and emphasized that the UN's commitment to providing humanitarian aid persists even amid increased risks. The organization aims to resume full operations as soon as conditions allow.

Reports indicate that attacks on a UN compound in Deir Al Balah were initiated by an Israeli tank, an assertion supported by UN Secretary-General Antonio Gutteres who has called for an independent investigation. Contrarily, the Israeli military attributes strikes in the area to targeting errors, leading to increased calls for accountability.

(With inputs from agencies.)