What’s new:

A USAID contractor, Hani Jnena, was killed alongside his family during an Israeli airstrike in Gaza in November, as confirmed by his employer, Global Communities.

Why it matters:

The death of Jnena, his wife, and two young daughters adds to the civilian toll in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian groups in Gaza. The incident has sparked calls for accountability and highlights the dangers faced by humanitarian workers in conflict zones.

The big picture:

The conflict escalated on October 7 following a Hamas operation that resulted in Israeli casualties and hostages. In response, Israel has conducted operations in Gaza, leading to significant loss of life and calls for international attention on the humanitarian impact.

Details:

Hani Jnena, 33, was working with Global Communities to provide IT services in Gaza. He and his family had sought refuge at his in-laws’ residence after their own neighborhood came under fire. Tragically, they were killed when the building was struck on November 5.

Impact on USAID:

The loss of Jnena, described as kind and committed, has been felt deeply within USAID. The agency is advocating for the safety of humanitarian workers and civilians, pushing for discussions with Israeli authorities to ensure the protection of those delivering and accessing aid.

Official responses:

While the IDF has not confirmed its role in the airstrike, it maintains that it adheres to international law and aims to minimize civilian casualties. USAID has expressed grief over the loss of humanitarian workers and innocent lives, underscoring the need for accountability.

Bottom line:

The death of Hani Jnena and his family in Gaza underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the risks faced by civilians and aid workers in conflict zones. The incident has prompted renewed scrutiny over military operations and the necessity of safeguarding non-combatants.

This story was first published on jpost.com.