Amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Colonel Vaibhav Anil Kale, a retired officer of the Indian Army’s Jammu Kashmir Rifles, met a tragic end while serving as an observer with the United Nations Department of Safety and Security Team (UNDSS) in Gaza.
Colonel Kale, who recently joined the United Nations Department of Safety and Security, lost his life in an attack on his vehicle while en route to inspect a hospital. On Monday, Colonel Kale was going from Gaza to inspect the European Hospital in Rafah. During this time his car was attacked. However, it is not yet clear whether there was a ground attack or an air attack on his vehicle. His untimely demise leaves behind a legacy of selflessness and dedication to peacekeeping.
Who attacked? Was it the IDF or Hamas?
There is no clarity who is behind the attack on the UN team. The 46-year-old Colonel Kale was originally from Pune, Maharashtra and is survived by his wife and two children.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack, stressing the need to protect humanitarian aid workers and calling for an immediate ceasefire.
Following the attack, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres shared the information. Guterres said that a UN vehicle has been attacked in Gaza in which “one of our comrades has lost his life and another is injured.” According to Guterres, “So far 190 UN staff members have lost their lives in Gaza.” He said that humanitarian aid work should be protected. The UN Secretary General condemned the attacks on UN personnel and called for an “immediate ceasefire on humanitarian grounds.” And he also appealed for the release of Israeli hostages held by the terrorist organization Hamas.
Gilles Michod, UNDSS Under-Secretary-General, hailed Colonel Kale’s commitment to making a difference in the world’s most dangerous places, underscoring his lasting impact on those he served alongside.
As the conflict persists, with over 30,000 reported casualties, Israel’s Defense Forces continue their operations in Gaza. The situation remains tense, with Israel adamant about continuing the war until civilians held hostage by Hamas are freed.