On January 5, 2025, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) condemned an attack by the Israeli military on one of its aid convoys in Gaza, describing the incident as "unacceptable."
The convoy, consisting of three vehicles marked with clear identification, was fired upon by Israeli forces near the Wadi Gaza checkpoint in the central Palestinian enclave. The WFP stated that all necessary permits had been obtained from Israeli authorities.
Fortunately, none of the eight occupants of the vehicles, which were struck by 16 bullets, were injured during the incident, which the organization termed "terrifying."
The WFP firmly condemned the incident, emphasizing that it reflects the challenging and dangerous working environment faced by humanitarian agencies in Gaza. The organization called for urgent improvements in security conditions to ensure the continuation of humanitarian relief operations.
The WFP urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law and allow safe passage for humanitarian aid.
This is not the first instance of UN vehicles being targeted since the outbreak of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began following a significant attack by the Palestinian Islamist group on October 7, 2023. In May, an Indian national working for the UN was killed when his vehicle was hit by gunfire. Additionally, in August, the WFP accused Israeli forces of firing on one of its vehicles, prompting a temporary suspension of staff movements within the Gaza Strip.