Geneva, 4 December 2024: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is deeply saddened by the killing of a Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) paramedic in Gaza today.
Alaa Al-Derawi, a member of PRCS’s emergency medical team, was fatally shot in the Khan Younis area of Gaza, shortly after transporting patients for treatment. He was returning to base when the incident occurred.
The IFRC sends its deepest condolences to Alaa Al-Derawi’s loved ones, his team and all our PRCS colleagues working tirelessly across Gaza in extremely dangerous conditions.
Under International Humanitarian Law, hospitals, ambulances, healthcare workers, and their patients must be respected and protected in every situation.
Any attack on healthcare workers, ambulances, and medical facilities is unacceptable.
This latest tragedy has taken place on the eve of International Volunteer Day – a moment to come together globally to call for the protection of all volunteers and commemorate those who have been killed while working to support their communities.
Alaa Al-Derawi’s death brings the total number of IFRC network members killed worldwide this year to 32.
We strongly reiterate our call for unwavering respect for the Red Cross, Red Crescent and Red Crystal emblems and the crucial humanitarian services they represent.
For more information: media@ifrc.org
In Geneva:
Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367
Hannah Copeland +41 76 236 9109
In Beirut:
Mey Al Sayegh, +961 7617 4468
Nichola Jones, +44 77 154 59956