RAFAH, GAZA – The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) has issued a strong call for an independent international investigation after 15 medical and humanitarian aid workers were martyred during an Israeli military attack in the Rafah area of southern Gaza on March 23.
PRCS described the attack as a “complete war crime” and a grave violation of international humanitarian law. President Younis al-Khatib demanded the formation of a global commission to reveal the facts and bring the perpetrators to justice.
According to the Society, the targeted aid workers were responding to an Israeli airstrike and traveling in marked ambulances to assist the wounded. The vehicles reportedly came under direct fire for five minutes, followed by sporadic gunfire that lasted an additional two hours.
One survivor recounted that the ambulances were hit without warning and alleged that Israeli forces used them as human shields during the attack.
“This is not just an attack on medics; it’s an attack on humanity,” said al-Khatib, urging the international community to act swiftly and ensure accountability.
Israeli Military Denies Allegations
The Israeli military responded by denying the PRCS’s claims, stating that the targeted individuals were “terrorists” traveling toward a restricted military zone in unauthorized vehicles. However, PRCS dismissed this explanation as “false and misleading propaganda.”
PRCS has called on all humanitarian organizations and legal entities to assist in demanding justice and ensuring protection for medical personnel in conflict zones.
Key Highlights:
- 15 medics and humanitarian workers killed in Israeli strike on March 23
- PRCS labels the attack a “war crime” and calls for an international investigation
- Ambulances reportedly fired upon for five minutes, with gunfire lasting two hours
- Israeli military denies wrongdoing, claims they targeted “terrorists”
- PRCS rejects Israeli claims, calls them baseless rumors
- International humanitarian law violations cited by PRCS
Source: Reuters
Related article: Israel-Gaza War Update
