UNHCR denounces murder of two staff in Israeli air raids

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has condemned the tragic killings of two staff members, Dina Darwiche and Ali Basma, in Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon.

Dina Darwiche, a 12-year veteran of UNHCR’s Bekaa office, was killed along with her youngest son when their residential building was struck by an Israeli missile. Her husband and another child survived but suffered serious injuries.

Ali Basma, who worked with UNHCR’s Tyre office for seven years through a contracted cleaning company, was also killed. His death was confirmed on September 23.

The UNHCR expressed outrage and “deep sadness” over the loss, stating: “UNHCR is outraged by the killing of our colleagues, and we extend our deepest sympathies to their families and loved ones.”

The agency emphasized the urgent need for civilian protection, noting that over 550 people were killed in Lebanon in a single day. “The protection of civilians is a must,” the UNHCR stressed.

This incident highlights the escalating humanitarian crisis in Lebanon and underscores the need for immediate action to safeguard civilian lives.

Earlier, The UN’s refugee agency (UNHCR) said two of its staff were among the people killed in Israel’s bombardment of Lebanon.

“Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon are now relentlessly claiming hundreds of civilian lives,” UNHCR head Filippo Grandi said on X.

“And I am very saddened to confirm that two UNHCR colleagues were also killed yesterday,” he added, extending his condolences.