Article

ICRC mourns colleague killed in Gaza

ICRC flag with black ribbon attached

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the tragic killing of our colleague, Ziyad El Toum.

Ziyad, 46, was killed near his home in Khan Younis in Gaza around 4 July 2025, while attempting along with his relatives to reach and assist an injured family member.  

Tragically, Ziyad and his relatives did not survive.

Ziyad’s killing is a devastating loss for his family and friends and for our entire team. 

We extend our deepest condolences to Ziyad’s wife, extended family, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.

FAQ

Our work in Israel and the occupied territories

The ICRC has been present in Israel and the occupied territories (including the Golan, West Bank and Gaza Strip, and Shebaa Farms) since 1967. As a neutral, impartial and independent humanitarian organization, we promote compliance with international humanitarian law (IHL) and work to mitigate the impact of armed conflict, other violence and occupation on civilians through our protection activities and assistance programs.