COMMISSIONER-GENERAL OF PALESTINE RELIEF AGENCY PROTESTS ISRAELI BOMBING IN GAZA

COMMISSIONER-GENERAL OF PALESTINE RELIEF AGENCY PROTESTS ISRAELI BOMBING IN GAZA

GAZA, 11 February (UNRWA) -– Peter Hansen, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), acting on behalf of all United Nations agencies represented in the occupied Palestinian territory, has protested in “the strongest possible terms” to the Government of Israel regarding last night’s bombing of Gaza City.  The bombing caused substantial damage to the Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process and injured two members of his staff.  In addition, damage was caused to the offices of the representatives of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the World Bank, as well as to several residences of United Nations staff.

Mr. Hansen expressed his deep concern and dismay at the use of heavy weaponry in close proximity to United Nations offices where staff were working at the time of the attacks.  He reminded the Government of Israel that the safety and security of United Nations staff working in the area is their responsibility under international law.  He asked for assurances that all necessary steps will be taken by the Government of Israel to prevent the recurrence of attacks by the Israeli Defence Force that might in any way endanger United Nations staff or premises in the occupied Palestinian territory.

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