UN Reduces International Presence in Gaza Amid UN Personnel Casualties at Israeli Last Strike
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Hashim Sheikh - . March 25, 2025
- . Update: March 25, 2025 4:03 pm
The United Nations is scaling back its international personnel in Gaza by approximately one-third on a temporary basis after Israeli bombardment killed hundreds of civilians including UN personnel.
The decision to withdraw was announced by United Nations spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Monday and he cited security and operational reasons. Approximately 30 out of every 100 international personnel will be withdrawn from Gaza with plans to resume when conditions permit.
This action takes place after an Israeli tank attacked a United Nations compound in Deir Al Balah on March 19th resulting in the deaths of a Bulgarian UN employee and serious injuries to six others from other countries including France, the UK and Palestine. The UN made a point to show that all parties were well aware of the location of this compound.
Finally, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres is pushing for a comprehensive and independent investigation of the attack. Despite the staff reduction, the UN remains committed to delivering aid to Gaza’s civilians as humanitarian needs continue to escalate amid the ongoing conflict.
