Israeli Airstrikes Destroy Red Cross Buildings At Gaza Strip
Israeli military forces acknowledged firing upon a building belonging to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Rafah, southern Gaza, due to a misidentification during operations. The incident, which occurred on March 24, 2025, resulted in damage to the structure but fortunately caused no injuries to staff members.
Incident Details
According to the Israeli military, troops operating in Rafah identified suspects within the building and perceived a threat, leading them to open fire. Subsequent assessments revealed that this identification was incorrect, and the targeted structure was, in fact, an ICRC facility. The military stated that the ownership of the building was unknown to the forces at the time and has committed to reviewing the incident.
ICRC’s Response
The ICRC reported that while the building sustained damage, no staff members were harmed. Emphasizing the importance of safeguarding humanitarian operations, the organization highlighted that such attacks directly impact their ability to provide essential services in conflict zones. The ICRC underscored that international humanitarian law grants special protection to humanitarian relief and medical personnel, as well as their facilities, and called for respect and protection in all circumstances to ensure the continuity of care.
Context of the Conflict
This incident occurs amidst escalating violence in the Gaza Strip. Israeli strikes have resulted in significant casualties, with reports indicating over 65 Palestinians killed in a single day, including women and children. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that the death toll from 17 months of conflict has exceeded 50,000. Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire are ongoing, with Egypt proposing a new plan involving the release of hostages by Hamas in exchange for humanitarian aid and a pause in fighting. ​
International Reactions
The international community has expressed concern over the safety of humanitarian workers in conflict zones. The United Nations has announced a reduction of its international staff in Gaza following deadly strikes on its compound, emphasizing the need for the protection of aid workers and civilians alike.
The mistaken attack on the Red Cross office in Gaza highlights the perils faced by humanitarian organizations operating in conflict areas. It underscores the urgent need for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian laws designed to protect civilians and aid workers, ensuring that vital humanitarian assistance can be delivered safely and effectively.​
