Palestinian International Organization for Peace and Human Rights

March 20, 2025

On 19 March 2025, the staff accommodation of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in Deir al-Balah was targeted, resulting in the death of staff member Marin Marinov and injuries to five others. Reports indicate that some of the staff members were providing support for UN programs related to mine action and aid delivery.

Humanitarian repercussions

Attacks on humanitarian workers’ headquarters affect the continuity of activities that support the civilian population, and may hinder the access of specialized teams to affected areas when the need for their services increases.

Rights and legal protection

United Nations premises and civilian humanitarian personnel are protected under international humanitarian law. Any attack resulting in deaths and injuries necessitates an examination of the facts, the nature of the location, and the precautions taken.

Protection and monitoring methods

Ensuring the safety of relief operations requires a credible investigation into the incident, securing the work sites of international teams, and putting in place practical arrangements to prevent a recurrence of attacks.

Featured image: Illustrative archive photo and does not document the incident. Damaged buildings in Beit Lahia. Photo by: Jaber Jihad Badwan, License CC BY-SA 4.0 — Image source.