The number of UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees personnel reported killed in the Gaza Strip has risen to 63. This update comes from UNRWA and was relayed by RIA News in reference to an official statement from the agency.
A further 10 UNRWA personnel were confirmed dead in the past 72 hours, bringing the total fatalities among UNRWA staff since 7 October to 63, according to the organization’s statement. In addition, at least 22 UNRWA employees have been injured since October 7, reflecting the severe toll on humanitarian workers in the region.
The situation prompted calls at the United Nations to take action to de‑escalate the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and protect civilians amid ongoing hostilities.
On October 7, militant groups launched thousands of rockets into Israel and announced the start of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. Reports indicated a large-scale incursion by militants into Israeli territory, with many military assets seized and more than a hundred hostages taken. In response, Israel declared a state of war, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outlined a broad war posture against the attackers.
The Israeli Defense Forces launched a substantial intervention named Iron Swords, aimed at neutralizing Hamas’ military capabilities. The operation included airstrikes on hundreds of militant targets across the Gaza Strip. Simultaneously, the National Security Council of Israel decided to halt water, food, goods, electricity, and fuel deliveries to the region in an effort to weaken militant infrastructure and pressure Hamas to concede.
Earlier reports from Russia referenced possible timelines for the end of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, indicating there was ongoing international speculation about when a resolution might emerge amid the fighting.
Rising casualties among humanitarian workers underscore the dangerous conditions faced by aid organizations operating in Gaza. UNRWA has repeatedly called for safe access and protection for its staff and the vulnerable populations they serve. The evolving security environment continues to complicate relief efforts, emergency response, and the delivery of essential services to refugees and residents affected by the fighting.
Analysts note that the broader regional dynamics, including shifting alliances and regional political pressures, further complicate the path toward de-escalation. The international community remains engaged in diplomatic efforts to negotiate a pause in hostilities, secure humanitarian corridors, and ensure the protection of civilians in accordance with international law. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains severe, with many people reliant on aid for survival, medical care, and basic necessities.
For UNRWA and other humanitarian agencies, the priority is safe, rapid access to affected areas and the rapid delivery of relief supplies. While military operations continue, the focus remains on safeguarding staff and ensuring that aid reaches those most in need, even in the most challenging circumstances. The situation continues to develop, with ongoing updates from UNRWA and international partners informing the public about developments on the ground and the humanitarian response plan. Attribution: UNRWA statement; RIA News reporting; official statements from Israeli authorities; commentary from regional observers.