India Mourns the Loss of Col. Waibhav Anil Kale: UN Employee Killed in Gaza
The Ministry of External Affairs expressed its condolences on Wednesday over the tragic death of Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale (retd), an Indian national who was serving with the United Nations in Gaza. Colonel Kale lost his life in an attack on the vehicle he was traveling in Gaza’s Rafah region on Monday. The MEA stated that India’s Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, as well as its missions in Tel Aviv and Ramallah, are facilitating the repatriation of Colonel Kale’s mortal remains to India.
In an official statement, the MEA conveyed its deep sadness, saying, “We are deeply saddened by the death of Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale (Retd), Security Coordination Officer in the UN Department of Safety and Security (DSS) in Gaza on 13 May 2024. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and dear ones.” The ministry further added, “Our Permanent Mission to the UN in New York and our Missions in Tel Aviv and Ramallah are extending all assistance in the repatriation of mortal remains to India and continue to be in touch with relevant authorities regarding the investigation into the incident.”
Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale was employed by the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (DSS) and tragically lost his life during the attack on his vehicle in Rafah. The region of Rafah has been particularly volatile due to ongoing military operations by Israel. Colonel Kale, aged 46, had retired early from the Indian Army in June 2022. He was recognized as a counter-terrorism specialist and had previously served as a UN peacekeeper.
His death marked the first instance of an international staff member of the UN losing their life in the Israel-Hamas conflict since October 2023. The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in New York expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Col. Waibhav Kale, working for the UN Department of Safety and Security in Gaza. Our deepest condolences are with the family during this difficult time.”
The United Nations promptly launched an investigation into the missile strike that claimed Colonel Kale’s life. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the urgent need for a humanitarian ceasefire and the release of hostages amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He stressed that the violence not only affects civilians but also poses significant risks to humanitarian workers.
The loss of Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale is a reminder of the risks faced by individuals serving in conflict zones and the importance of their contributions to global peacekeeping efforts. India’s commitment to facilitating the repatriation of Colonel Kale’s remains underscores the nation’s solidarity with its citizens serving in international capacities. As investigations into the incident continue, the international community remains vigilant in advocating for peace and stability in conflict-affected regions like Gaza.
