The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has expressed profound outrage following the deaths of eight medics from the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) who were killed while on duty in the Gaza Strip. This incident marks the deadliest attack on Red Cross and Red Crescent personnel since 2017.
Incident Overview
On March 23, 2025, a PRCS ambulance crew came under heavy fire in Rafah, located in the southern Gaza Strip. The team had been missing for seven days before their bodies were recovered. The IFRC reported that access to the area was denied during this period, delaying the recovery efforts.
International Response
Jagan Chapagain, the Secretary General of the IFRC, expressed his heartbreak over the incident, emphasizing that the medics were dedicated professionals risking their lives to provide humanitarian assistance. He highlighted that the medics were clearly identified by their emblems, which should have afforded them protection under international humanitarian law.
Context of Ongoing Conflict
The deaths of these medics occur amid escalating violence in Gaza. The Israeli military has issued evacuation orders for Rafah, indicating a potential major ground operation. The conflict has led to significant casualties, with Gaza health authorities reporting over 50,000 deaths, predominantly civilians.
Call for Accountability
The PRCS has demanded accountability for what they describe as a war crime. They have also called for information regarding a ninth medic, Assad al-Nasasra, whose whereabouts remain unknown.
Conclusion
The targeting of medical personnel and facilities is a grave violation of international humanitarian law. The IFRC and PRCS are urging all parties involved in the conflict to respect and protect humanitarian workers who are providing essential services in extremely challenging conditions.
