A Palestinian paramedic detained by Israeli forces following a deadly attack that left 15 emergency workers dead has been released after 37 days, according to the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS). Assad al-Nassasra was unaccounted for for three weeks until the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) confirmed his detention. His release occurred at an Israeli border crossing on Tuesday, along with nine other detainees, as reported by the PRCS. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have yet to provide comments on the release, however, they previously acknowledged holding Mr. Nassasra during an internal inquiry into the controversial incident that occurred on March 23. The inquiry revealed a series of "professional failures" but was denounced by the PRCS as a means to excuse what they labeled as a "war crime".
Gaza paramedic released after lengthy detention amid ongoing conflict
Gaza paramedic released after lengthy detention amid ongoing conflict
The Palestinian Red Crescent confirmed the release of a medic detained during an Israeli military operation that led to the deaths of multiple emergency workers.
During the incident in Rafah, eight PRCS paramedics, six Civil Defence first responders, and a UN agency employee were killed when their emergency vehicles fell under fire. Their remains were discovered in shallow graves a week later. Contradictory accounts from the Israeli military prompted further outrage. Initially, they claimed shots were fired at "suspicious vehicles," later correcting that claim after video evidence showed the paramedics' vehicles had their emergency lights activated.
On April 20, the military's internal investigation disclosed that confusion within their ranks led to the tragic shooting. The IDF stated that the deputy commander responsible for the operation was dismissed for their incomplete reporting. However, the PRCS condemned the findings, asserting it was part of an ongoing effort to shift blame and protect Israeli soldiers. The organization accused Israeli authorities of manipulating the narrative around attacks on rescue workers as a means to justify their actions.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with numerous civilian casualties reported amid ongoing Israeli military actions targeting Hamas following a significant cross-border attack on October 7, 2023. The Palestinian Health Ministry estimates casualties in Gaza have exceeded 52,365, with ongoing aerial and artillery strikes contributing to the devastation. Meanwhile, humanitarian aid access to Gaza has been severely restricted since early March, raising concerns of severe shortages and potential war crimes under international law. The UN has increased calls for accountability and adherence to obligations regarding civilian protections and humanitarian aid access amidst the escalating conflict.
On April 20, the military's internal investigation disclosed that confusion within their ranks led to the tragic shooting. The IDF stated that the deputy commander responsible for the operation was dismissed for their incomplete reporting. However, the PRCS condemned the findings, asserting it was part of an ongoing effort to shift blame and protect Israeli soldiers. The organization accused Israeli authorities of manipulating the narrative around attacks on rescue workers as a means to justify their actions.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with numerous civilian casualties reported amid ongoing Israeli military actions targeting Hamas following a significant cross-border attack on October 7, 2023. The Palestinian Health Ministry estimates casualties in Gaza have exceeded 52,365, with ongoing aerial and artillery strikes contributing to the devastation. Meanwhile, humanitarian aid access to Gaza has been severely restricted since early March, raising concerns of severe shortages and potential war crimes under international law. The UN has increased calls for accountability and adherence to obligations regarding civilian protections and humanitarian aid access amidst the escalating conflict.
