UNRWA Chief Calls for Independent Inquiry into Deaths of Over 390 Agency Staff in Gaza

UNRWA Chief Calls for Independent Inquiry into Deaths of Over 390 Agency Staff in Gaza
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The Commissioner‑General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has called for a high‑level independent investigation into the deaths of more than 390 UNRWA employees in Gaza during the ongoing conflict, urging greater accountability and enhanced protection for humanitarian workers.

Philippe Lazzarini made the appeal on March 31, during a press conference in Geneva on his final day in office. He described the loss of UNRWA staff as “the deadliest losses” in the agency’s history and underscored the urgent need to clarify the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Lazzarini emphasized that establishing a panel of independent experts to examine these incidents is essential to determine what happened, ensure accountability, and prevent similar tragedies in the future. He said such an inquiry should be supported by the United Nations and its member states.

The outgoing UNRWA head also highlighted broader operational and security challenges faced by the agency amid the conflict, including attacks on humanitarian premises and severe constraints on staff safety. He warned that without stronger measures to protect aid workers, the ability of UNRWA and other humanitarian organisations to operate in Gaza and surrounding areas could be jeopardized.

The request for an independent investigation has drawn attention at the United Nations and among international partners, reflecting concerns over the risks faced by humanitarian personnel in active conflict.