The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) condemns the attack on the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) headquarters in Khan Younis, which resulted in the killing of PRCS staff member Omar Isleem, and injuries to two additional staff members and one civilian who was trying to help extinguish the fire that broke out at the site.
The facility, clearly marked with the Red Crescent emblem, protected under universally agreed rules of international humanitarian law, was reportedly struck multiple times, with the second and ground floors hit while PRCS teams were evacuating the premises and working to contain a fire.
A total of 51 PRCS staff and volunteers have lost their lives during this conflict. Of these, 31 — including 29 in Gaza and two in the West Bank — were killed while on duty, wearing the Red Crescent emblem that should have guaranteed their protection under international humanitarian law.
We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Omar Isleem, his colleagues, and the entire PRCS team.
IFRC President Kate Forbes said: “I am outraged and devastated by the horrific news from Gaza. I offer my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Omar Isleem. My thoughts are also with those who have been injured and with all the staff and volunteers of PRCS.”
IFRC Secretary General, Jagan Chapagain, said: “I am horrified and appalled by news of this attack. I cannot stress enough that humanitarian workers and facilities must be protected. It’s a moral and legal imperative.”
For almost two years, the PRCS has been providing ambulance services and critical healthcare under relentless and extremely dangerous conditions in Gaza, caring for the many wounded amidst continuous hostilities. With the healthcare system on the brink of collapse and medical resources nearly depleted, PRCS teams remain a lifeline for civilians in desperate need of life-saving support. Any attack on their facilities or personnel is an attack on humanitarian assistance itself.
This incident is a stark reminder of the dire and unacceptable conditions facing humanitarian workers and civilians in Gaza.
We stand in full solidarity with the Palestine Red Crescent Society.