U.N. Reduces Workforce in Gaza Amid Escalating Violence

In light of escalating violence in Gaza, the United Nations has decided to withdraw approximately one-third of its international workforce stationed in the region. This decision follows an incident where an Israeli tank shell struck a U.N. compound, raising concerns for the safety of its personnel. Secretary-General António Guterres stated that this difficult choice comes amidst soaring humanitarian needs, as the conflict has resulted in the deaths of numerous Palestinians, including many women and children.

This marked the first reduction of U.N. staff since the outbreak of the Israeli-Hamas war in 2023, although Guterres emphasized that the organization remains committed to continuing its aid efforts. He acknowledged the grim reality that over 280 U.N. staff members have lost their lives in Gaza, the organization’s highest casualty toll in any conflict. U.N. spokesman Stéphane Dujarric confirmed that roughly 30 percent of the agency's international personnel will depart in the coming week, a figure that could increase in the following weeks, as the need for humanitarian assistance continues to grow in the beleaguered territory.