(Anadolu via Getty Image) Smoke rises over western Deir al-Balah during an Israeli offensive on Monday
The Israeli military on Tuesday confirmed that its troops raided a World Health Organization (WHO) facility in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, detaining several individuals suspected of terrorist involvement.
According to a statement by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the operation was carried out in response to gunfire allegedly directed at Israeli troops operating in the area. The army said its personnel returned fire and later moved into the WHO compound, though it was unclear if the facility was damaged in the exchange.
“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 military said, adding that it maintained consistent coordination with humanitarian agencies throughout the operation.
The IDF revealed that several individuals were detained during the raid for questioning. While the majority have since been released and escorted out in coordination with aid agencies, others remain in custody, the army said, noting that all detainees are being treated in accordance with international law.
However, the World Health Organization gave a sharply contrasting account. In a statement released after the incident, WHO accused Israeli forces of storming the facility without justification, alleging that staff and their families were subjected to mistreatment.
“Women and children were forced to flee on foot, while male staff members and family members were reportedly handcuffed, stripped, interrogated at gunpoint, and screened,” the WHO said.
The organization confirmed that two of its staff members and two family members were taken into Israeli custody. Three have since been released, while one remains detained.
In response, an IDF spokesperson stated that field interrogations may involve asking suspects to temporarily remove parts of their clothing to verify they are not carrying explosives or concealed weapons.
The IDF also acknowledged that the facility sustained some damage during the operation, although it reported no injuries to WHO personnel.
In a separate statement, the WHO said its main medical warehouse in the area was also damaged, a claim the Israeli military has not addressed.
The incident comes amid an intensifying Israeli ground offensive in central Gaza, particularly in Deir al-Balah, where the IDF had earlier issued mass evacuation orders to civilians.
The military has defended its operations, maintaining that it will not hesitate to act in any area where it believes terrorist threats persist.
“The IDF will not refrain from operating in areas where terrorist activity threatens the security of the State of Israel,” the army reiterated.