The father of a paramedic killed in Gaza has spoken out about the tragic loss of his son. Hassan Abu Hileh shared with Sky News that he was supposed to be on the mission to rescue wounded colleagues on that fateful day, but fell ill and sent his son, Mohammed, in his place.
At Mohammed’s funeral, Hassan expressed his grief and anger, holding Israel responsible for the deaths of his son and 14 other aid workers. He emphasized the need for protection for medical teams in conflict zones, stating, "We are medics—soldiers of duty, not armed fighters." He called for the international community to step in and ensure the safety of those providing humanitarian aid.
The bodies of the workers were discovered in a mass grave in southern Gaza, buried under sand. The United Nations reported that they had been missing for about eight days before their remains were found. Dr. Bashir Murad, the director of the Palestinian Red Crescent, accused Israel of murder, stating that all the bodies were shot in the upper body and buried.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) denied these accusations, claiming they opened fire only on vehicles they deemed suspicious and operating without coordination in an active combat zone. They insisted that their actions were justified, citing the need for security in a dangerous environment.
The situation for aid workers in Gaza has become increasingly perilous. The UN reported that over 400 aid workers have been killed since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict. This tragic event highlights the ongoing risks faced by those trying to provide medical assistance in war-torn areas.
As the conflict continues, the call for better protection for humanitarian workers grows louder. Families like Hassan’s are left to mourn the loss of loved ones who dedicated their lives to helping others.