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United Nations (UN) compounds globally lowered their flags to half-mast on Monday as UN staff observed a minute's silence for over 100 colleagues who lost their lives in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas war. The poignant tribute began at 9:30 am local time in offices across Asia, starting in Bangkok, Tokyo, and Beijing, with other UN locations following suit.
The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) revealed on Friday that 101 of its employees had tragically perished in the Gaza Strip since the onset of the war just over a month ago. This staggering loss of life underscores the human toll of the ongoing conflict.
Sunday brought further distress as the UN reported "a significant number of deaths and injuries" resulting from strikes on one of its facilities in Gaza. The escalating violence has drawn attention to the challenges faced by UN workers operating in the conflict zone.
Tom White, the director of UNRWA in the Gaza Strip, expressed appreciation for the global tribute, stating, "UNRWA staff in Gaza appreciate the UN lowering the flag around the world." However, he emphasized the agency's commitment to persevering in its mission in Gaza, saying, "In Gaza, however, we have to keep the UN flag flying high as a sign that we are still standing and serving the people of Gaza."
As the international community mourns the loss of UN colleagues, the ongoing conflict highlights the challenges faced by humanitarian organizations in delivering aid and support in volatile regions.
