The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have admitted responsibility for the death of a United Nations (UN) worker in Gaza, reversing their initial denial following a deadly strike in Deir al-Balah on March 19.
The IDF said Thursday that a preliminary investigation found its troops mistakenly identified a UN guesthouse as a location containing “enemy presence” and fired on it with tank shells.
The attack killed Bulgarian UN staff member Marin Valev Marinov and seriously injured five other personnel.
The building, operated by the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS), was located in an isolated area and clearly marked. Initially, the IDF claimed it had not targeted any UN compound and cautioned media against “unverified reports.”
However, verified footage showed wounded individuals, including two in blue UN protective vests, being rushed to hospital. The IDF has now confirmed it shared its findings with the UN and promised a full report.
“The building was not identified by the forces as a UN facility,” the military said. “We express our deep sorrow for the loss and send our condolences to the family.”
UN Secretary General António Guterres had called for a full investigation, saying that UN premises are protected under international law. UNOPS Executive Director Jorge Moreira da Silva described the attack as “not an accident.”
The incident occurred a day after Israel resumed military operations in Gaza following a collapsed ceasefire with Hamas. The UN has reiterated that all sides are obligated to protect humanitarian workers and facilities.
