WFP condemns attack on Gaza aid convoy, calls for improved security

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
6 Jan 2025 23:03

The World Food programme demands improved security conditions to ensure humanitarian aid operations can continue unimpeded.

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WFP released this image of an aid convoy with bullet holes in the windshield (@WFPChief)

The US World Food Programme (WFP) has strongly condemned an incident in which Israeli forces fired on one of its aid convoys in Gaza.

The attack occurred on Sunday when a convoy of three vehicles transporting eight staff members from central Gaza to Gaza City was struck by 16 bullets near the Wadi Gaza checkpoint.

Although no injuries were reported, the convoy was immobilized. According to WFP, the vehicles were clearly marked and had received prior security clearance from Israeli authorities.

"The World Food Programme (WFP) strongly condemns the horrifying incident on January 5," the agency said in a statement. "This unacceptable event is just the latest example of the complex and dangerous working environment that WFP and other agencies are operating in today."

WFP urged for improved security conditions to ensure humanitarian aid operations can continue unimpeded. The Israeli military has not issued a response to the allegations.

The aggression has reignited concerns about the safety of aid workers in Gaza, where international agencies have long accused Israeli forces of obstructing humanitarian efforts.

Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of UNRWA, addressed the WFP's statement in a tweet, highlighting the dangers faced by aid workers.

In #Gaza, there is no distinction.
Humanitarian workers, whoever they are, have been regularly a target.

This blatant disregard cannot be the new norm.

Humanitarian workers wherever they are, are #NotATarget 🛑 https://t.co/yqTIFnTJku
— Philippe Lazzarini (@UNLazzarini) January 6, 2025

Since the start of the genocide, at least 333 humanitarian workers have been killed in Israeli attacks, marking the deadliest year on record for such personnel.

UNRWA has experienced particularly devastating losses, with 258 staff members killed.

The agency is currently facing the possibility of a complete ban imposed by the occupation authorities.

Louise Wateridge, UNRWA's senior emergency officer, warned on Sunday that social order in Gaza is put at further risk if "Israel" proceeds with its plans to ban the UNRWA.