Convoy Carrying Lifesaving Medical Supplies in Gaza Comes Under Fire, Driver Injured
A humanitarian aid convoy transporting vital medical supplies to health facilities in Gaza City was targeted by gunfire, resulting in the injury of a driver, as reported by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The ICRC stated that two trucks were damaged during the attack, and a driver sustained minor injuries. The convoy, en route to deliver lifesaving medical supplies to health facilities, including Al Quds Hospital of the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, was struck by fire on Tuesday. The medical NGO expressed deep concern over the incident.
The ICRC emphasized that all parties involved in the conflict have a legal responsibility to uphold and protect humanitarian workers according to international humanitarian law.
Although the source of the gunfire remains unidentified, the ICRC convoy, composed of two ICRC vehicles and five trucks, was significantly impacted.
We are deeply troubled that our humanitarian convoy in Gaza City came under fire today. It was carrying lifesaving medical supplies to health facilities, including Al Quds @PalestineRCS hospital.
Under IHL, humanitarian workers must be protected.
👇 https://t.co/sUcbJlkXYL— ICRC in Israel & OT (@ICRC_ilot) November 7, 2023
Subsequent to the attack, the convoy altered its route to deliver the medical supplies to al-Shifa Hospital, and then facilitated the transfer of critically wounded patients with six ambulances to the Rafah crossing from Gaza to Egypt, as announced by the ICRC.
“The conditions under which humanitarian personnel are expected to operate are less than ideal,” stated William Schomburg, the head of ICRC’s sub-delegation in Gaza. “The provision of crucial aid to medical facilities aligns with legal obligations under international humanitarian law.”
In its role as a neutral organization headquartered in Geneva, the ICRC has been responsible for escorting patients and aiding the release of captives from Gaza.
Since October 7, the Israeli bombardment has resulted in over 10,000 Palestinian fatalities, with approximately 40% being children, according to Gaza’s health authorities. Nearly two-thirds of Gaza’s 2.3 million inhabitants have been displaced, prompting thousands to seek refuge at hospitals, including makeshift canvas shelters set up in their parking lots.
Hospitals throughout the enclave have been targeted, leading to operational challenges due to fuel and medical supply shortages. Amid this dire situation, the United Nations has warned that Gaza’s health, sanitation, water, and food services are on the brink of collapse.
