Article: ICRC Offices Damaged in Gaza, Killing 22 People sought Shelter

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has reported that its offices in Gaza were damaged by shelling, resulting in the tragic deaths of 22 people who had sought shelter around its compound. The ICRC stated that “heavy-calibre projectiles landed within meters of the office and residences of the International Committee of the Red Cross on Friday afternoon.”

While the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have stated that there was no direct attack by them on the Red Cross facility, the incident has sparked outrage and calls for an independent investigation. The European Union’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell condemned the attack and called for those responsible to be held accountable.

The ICRC reported that the strike caused mass casualties, with 22 people killed and 45 injured, prompting an influx of patients at the nearby Red Cross Field Hospital. William Schomburg, head of the ICRC office in Rafah, described the scene as horrific, with many women, children, and young men severely injured.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has seen a high number of civilian casualties, with more than 37,551 people reportedly killed since the beginning of the Israeli military campaign to destroy Palestinian armed groups. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has warned of escalating hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, urging for immediate de-escalation to prevent catastrophe in the region.

The situation in Gaza remains tense, with retaliatory strikes happening between Israel and Hezbollah. The continued violence underscores the need for a swift resolution to prevent further loss of life and suffering in the region.