On Monday, the United Nations confirmed it would reduce its footprint in Gaza and return approximately one-third of its international personnel. The move comes amid renewed Israeli airstrikes and an escalation in fighting across the area.
A Difficult Decision
In a statement, UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the decision as a “difficult” one, particularly at a time when “humanitarian needs are rising and Israeli airstrikes have resumed.” This marks the first partial withdrawal of UN staff from Gaza since the outbreak of the Swords of Iron war.
“The UN is Not Leaving Gaza”
Despite the drawdown, the UN stressed that it remains active in the region. “The UN is not leaving Gaza,” Guterres stated. “The organization remains committed to continuing the delivery of aid that civilians rely on for survival and protection.”
The decision follows reports last week alleging an IDF strike on a UN facility. In response, an IDF spokesperson stated: “Contrary to reports, the IDF did not strike a UN compound in Deir al-Balah. The IDF urges media outlets to exercise caution when reporting unverified information.”
