Islamic body condemns Israeli attack on UN convoy to Gaza
Palestinians shelter in a tent camp which was recently attacked in Israeli strikes, amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip, July 18, 2024. PHOTO: REUTERS
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Monday condemned an Israeli attack on a UN convoy heading to Gaza City.
The global Islamic body said in a statement that the attack contravenes international law and resolutions, denouncing the Israeli army's continued deprivation of Palestinian civilians of food, water, medical care, and other essential services.
It called on the international community to impose a ceasefire on Israeli military aggression, ensure sustainable delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, confront attempts at forced displacement of Palestinian civilians, and provide protection for the Palestinian people.
Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner-general of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, said on social media platform X on Monday that heavy shooting broke out from the Israeli forces at a UN convoy heading to Gaza City on Sunday.
"While there are no casualties, our teams had to duck and take cover," Lazzarini added, noting that the teams were traveling in clearly marked UN armored cars and wearing UN vests.
One vehicle received at least five bullets while waiting just ahead of the Israeli forces' checkpoint south of Wadi Gaza, and the car was severely damaged, according to Lazzarini. The teams re-assembled and finally reached Gaza City.
Lazzarini noted like all other similar UN movements, this movement was coordinated and approved by the Israeli authorities.