The United Nations has extended its condolences and expressed apologies to India following the tragic death of Colonel Vaibhav Anil Kale, a former Indian Army officer who was serving with the UN. Colonel Kale lost his life in Gaza when the vehicle he was traveling in, marked with UN insignia, came under fire from an Israeli tank in the conflict-ridden region of Rafah. The incident occurred as Colonel Kale and another UN staff member were en route to the European Hospital in Rafah, where they were engaged in their duties.
Colonel Kale, aged 46, had recently joined the UN as a Security Coordination Officer in the Department of Safety and Security (DSS), just two months before the unfortunate event. His untimely demise marks the first international casualty for the United Nations since the commencement of the Israel-Hamas conflict last year. The tragic incident has sparked sorrow and concern within the international community, particularly in India, where Colonel Kale's service and sacrifice are deeply mourned.
The UN has initiated a fact-finding panel to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack that claimed Colonel Kale's life. While details of the incident are still being verified, initial reports suggest that the shots were fired from an Israeli tank, causing fatal injuries to Colonel Kale and injuring his companion, a DSS staffer from Jordan. The injured staff member is currently receiving medical attention, and the UN remains hopeful for her recovery.
In response to the incident, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the attack on the UN personnel and called for a thorough investigation into the matter. Guterres reiterated the urgent need for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of protecting humanitarian workers who are operating in volatile and high-risk environments. He expressed solidarity with the family of Colonel Kale and conveyed his deepest condolences for their loss.
The Permanent Mission of India to the UN has also expressed profound sadness at the passing of Colonel Vaibhav Anil Kale. In a statement, the Mission conveyed its heartfelt condolences to Colonel Kale's family, acknowledging his dedicated service to both the Indian Army and the United Nations. As the investigation into the incident unfolds, both India and the international community await answers and justice for Colonel Kale, whose sacrifice serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by humanitarian workers in conflict zones around the world.
