In a solemn tribute, the United Nations (UN) paid homage to the 101 staff members who tragically lost their lives during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This devastating loss marks the largest loss of life in the organization's 78-year history during a conflict. UN offices across the globe, from New York City to Nairobi's Karura Forest, came together on Monday to commemorate the fallen heroes.

The fallen colleagues were dedicated members of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), tirelessly providing crucial aid to the 2.2 million people living in Gaza amid constant bombardment and a complete siege. Despite the challenges they faced, these brave individuals displayed unwavering commitment to serving the people of Gaza.

During a ceremony held by the UN Staff Union at the Secretariat in New York, the names of the deceased colleagues were read aloud, and a minute of silence was observed to honor their memory. UN flags were flown at half-mast as a symbol of mourning across all duty stations worldwide.

In Geneva, Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the UN Office in the Swiss city, acknowledged that the deaths of these aid workers represented the highest number of casualties in such a short period of time in the history of the UN. Valovaya emphasized the importance of paying tribute to the thousands of colleagues who continue to carry out vital work in dangerous parts of the world, working tirelessly under the UN flag.

The World Health Organization (WHO) also expressed its condolences, recognizing the immense dedication of the UNRWA staff members who served on the frontlines of conflict zones. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreysus, the head of WHO, praised their commitment to peace, justice, and the well-being of others, emphasizing that their work serves as a guiding light and a reminder of the shared mission.

The ceremony in New York was attended by the Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine, Riyad Mansour, who underlined the significance of the gesture in honoring the fallen UNRWA staff members and all Palestinian martyrs, including the thousands of children who lost their lives. Mansour emphasized the urgent need for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and the delivery of crucial aid, medicine, and water to the region.

Mansour also appealed for an end to the crime against humanity of forced mass transfer and stressed the Palestinian people's desire to remain in their homeland and rebuild the Gaza Strip. He expressed hope for a political solution to end the occupation, allowing the Palestinian people to live in freedom and dignity in their independent State, with Jerusalem as its capital.

The UN's commemoration of these fallen colleagues serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those working to bring aid and support to those affected by conflict. It highlights the urgent need for a resolution to the situation in Gaza, ensuring the safety and well-being of its people. The UN and its staff remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding peace, justice, and the protection of civilians in conflict zones worldwide.