In a statement released on Sunday, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) expressed shock at the deaths, stating that the medics’ bodies were identified and recovered for a proper burial. The ICRC praised the dedication of the staff and volunteers who risked their lives to help others.
The PRCS confirmed that six civil defense members and one U.N. employee were also found dead in the same area, with Israeli forces believed to be responsible for the attacks. The Red Cross did not assign blame in their statements.
The Israeli military has not yet responded to requests for comment on the incident.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies reported that one worker from the group of nine PRCS members remains missing since March 23. This tragic event marks the deadliest attack on Red Cross Red Crescent workers since 2017, as stated by the IFRC.
IFRC Secretary General Jagan Chapagain expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing that the ambulance workers were dedicated humanitarians who should have been protected by their emblems and clearly marked vehicles.
According to the United Nations, over 1,060 healthcare workers have been killed in the 18 months since Israel’s offensive in Gaza, which began after Hamas fighters breached southern Israel on October 7, 2023. Due to safety concerns, the UN is reducing its international staff in Gaza by a third.
