Israel Detains a UN Vehicle in Gaza and Later Releases the Detainees
After the Israeli army announced on Monday that its forces had detained a UN convoy in northern Gaza, UNRWA confirmed the release of the detainees.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini confirmed the release of the UN employees who were detained by Israel in Gaza.
This came after an Israeli military spokesperson stated that the detention order was based on intelligence indicating the presence of several “suspected Palestinians” in the convoy, adding that the purpose was to interrogate them, according to his claim.
He further noted that the convoy was not transporting polio vaccines but rather was meant for the exchange of UN personnel.
Meanwhile, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric commented that the UN was aware of an ongoing incident involving UN personnel and vehicles.
He confirmed that efforts were being made to establish the facts, stressing that the organization’s top priority was the safety and security of its colleagues.
This incident coincided with UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ announcement on Monday that the organization had offered to monitor any ceasefire in Gaza.
He called for an end to the worst death and destruction seen during his tenure, which has lasted over seven years, referring to the ongoing situation in the besieged Gaza Strip.
In an interview with the Associated Press, Guterres added that it was unrealistic to believe that the UN could play a role in Gaza’s future, either through managing the territory or providing a peacekeeping force, as Israel is unlikely to accept any UN involvement.
A Strained Relationship
It is worth noting that relations between the United Nations and Israel have significantly deteriorated since the war on Gaza began.
Israel’s ambassador to the UN has repeatedly criticized the international organization, as well as its Secretary-General, whom he has previously called upon to resign.
Additionally, several months ago, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz accused Guterres of concealing a report on Hamas violations and absolving it of responsibility, according to his statement.
By/radwa sherif ✏️✏️📚