UNICEF Condemns Killing of Water Truck Drivers in Gaza, Urges Investigation

DID Press: UNICEF expressed strong outrage over the killing of two contracted drivers working to deliver drinking water to families in the Gaza Strip.

In a statement, the agency said the two drivers were killed early Saturday morning, April 18, following gunfire by Israeli forces at the “Mansoura” water filling point in northern Gaza. UNICEF also confirmed that two other individuals were injured in the incident and extended condolences to the victims’ families.

The organization stated that the incident occurred during routine water delivery operations, with no changes in route or procedures. The Mansoura water point is currently the only active site used to fill trucks from the “Mekorot” water line supplying Gaza City, and is regularly used by UNICEF and humanitarian partners to assist hundreds of thousands of people, particularly children.

Due to the security situation, UNICEF announced a temporary suspension of field operations at the site.

The agency called on Israeli authorities to urgently investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable, stressing that humanitarian workers, essential service providers, and civilian infrastructure—especially critical water facilities—must not be targeted.

UNICEF reiterated that the protection of civilians and those delivering life-saving aid is a fundamental obligation under international humanitarian law.