IDF confirms raid on WHO facility, detains staff suspected of terror links
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that its troops entered a World Health Organization (WHO) facility in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, detaining several staff members suspected of involvement in terrorist activities.
According to the IDF, the operation followed gunfire directed at Israeli forces in the area. Troops returned fire but said it was unclear if the exchange caused damage to the WHO residence.
The military stated that its troops acted in response to the threat and operated with prior warnings issued to civilians and coordination with international organizations.
“Prior to the start of IDF activities in the area, the IDF warned the civilian population to evacuate for their safety and remained in contact with international organizations working in the area,” the IDF said in a statement.
“We maintain continuous and consistent contact with humanitarian agencies and facilitate the safe evacuation of their personnel.”
The IDF confirmed that several suspects were detained and interrogated, with the majority later released and escorted out in coordination with humanitarian groups.
“Those still in detention are being treated in accordance with international law,” the military added.
The World Health Organization, however, offered a different account.
In a statement, WHO accused Israeli troops of entering the premises, forcing women and children to flee on foot amid ongoing conflict.
The organization claims male staff and family members were “handcuffed, stripped, interrogated at gunpoint, and screened.”
Two WHO staff and two of their family members were reportedly detained; three have since been released, while one remains in Israeli custody.
Responding to the allegations, the IDF explained that “during field questioning, people suspected of terror involvement may be asked to temporarily remove parts of their clothing to ensure they are not concealing explosives or weapons.”
A military official acknowledged that the WHO residence sustained damage during the operation but said there were no known injuries to staff.
WHO also reported damage to its main warehouse in the area, although the IDF has not commented on that specific claim.
This latest incident comes amid a renewed Israeli ground offensive in Deir al-Balah, following a mass evacuation warning issued on Sunday.
The military has vowed to continue operations where it believes terrorist threats exist, stating, “The IDF will not refrain from operating in areas where terrorist activity threatens the security of the State of Israel.”
IDF confirms raid on WHO facility, detains staff suspected of terror links
