8 Bodies Of Palestinian Medical Officers Found, Allegedly Killed In Israeli Attacks On Gaza

The bodies of eight Palestinian Red Crescent (PRCS) medical officers who were attacked in Gaza more than a week ago have been found. One worker remains whose whereabouts are unknown.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said it was "surprised" by the death.

"Their body has been identified today and has been brought for honorable burial. These staff and volunteers are risking their own lives to provide support to others," the ICRC said.

PRCS said they also found the bodies of six civil defense members and one UN employee from the same area.

Israeli forces are said to be targeting the workers. Meanwhile, the Red Cross statement did not state who was responsible for the attack.

The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Associations said a worker from the nine-member PRCS group had yet to be found. The group disappeared on March 23.

The incident was the deadliest attack on Red Cross and Red Crescent workers anywhere since 2017, the IFRC said.

"I am heartbroken. These dedicated ambulance workers responded to the injured people. They are humanitarian workers," said IFRC Secretary General Jagan Chapagain.

"They wear symbols that should protect them; their ambulances are clearly marked."

According to the United Nations, at least 1,060 health workers have been killed in 18 months since Israel launched its attacks on Gaza after Hamas fighters stormed southern Israel on October 7, 2023.

The global agency is reducing its international staff personnel in Gaza by up to a third due to staff safety concerns.