Two French Nationals Seriously Injured in Strikes on UN Buildings in Gaza

Two French employees of the United Nations were seriously wounded in strikes targeting UN facilities in Gaza, the French Foreign Ministry announced on Friday, March 21. France expressed its “dismay” over the incident and strongly condemned the attack, calling it “unacceptable.”

French Victims and a Call for an Investigation

The strikes, whose origin remains undetermined, hit two buildings sheltering UN personnel on Wednesday, resulting in the death of a UNOPS employee and severe injuries to the two French nationals. According to diplomatic sources, one of them lost an eye and had a leg amputated. Both were evacuated to Israeli hospitals. France has called for an investigation to clarify the circumstances of the attack.

UN Workers Suffer Heavy Losses

This tragedy adds to the already devastating toll on the United Nations’ staff. On Thursday, UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini decried “an unrelenting chain of inhumane hardships” affecting both the people of Gaza and humanitarian workers. In recent days, five other UN employees—including teachers and medical staff—were killed, bringing the total number of UN workers killed since the start of the conflict to 284.

A Worsening Military Escalation

As Israeli bombardments intensified following the resumption of military operations on Tuesday, the human toll continues to rise. The Palestinian Civil Defense reported more than 500 deaths in just a few days, including 190 children. Meanwhile, Hamas has claimed responsibility for rocket fire targeting Tel Aviv in retaliation for the strikes.

International Condemnation and Political Tensions

Amid escalating violence, France also condemned recent statements by an Israeli minister advocating for the “annexation” of territories in Gaza. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot reiterated France’s strong opposition to any form of permanent occupation. Additionally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar has sparked controversy, with some accusing him of making the decision for political reasons.

As fighting continues, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has voiced concern over the ongoing strikes in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for a resolution that would secure the release of Israeli hostages still in captivity.