Country: occupied Palestinian territory Source: UN Development Programme AuthorAchim SteinerUNDP AdministratorI am deeply saddened by the tragic killing of our UNDP colleague, Ramzi Khader (47), his wife, their six children, and members of his extended family in Gaza yesterday. An Israeli airstrike on his family home in Jabalia in northern Gaza killed him and reportedly more than 36 members of his extended family. He is survived by his son, with whom we have been in touch to offer our support.Ramzi joined UNDP’s Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (UNDP/PAPP) in May 2004 as an Area Manager and served as a Programme Portfolio Associate in Gaza. Throughout his 21 years of service, and even under the most difficult circumstances since the onset of the war, Ramzi remained deeply committed to supporting the Palestinian people and advancing UNDP’s mandate on the ground.Ramzi was a special colleague and a treasured friend. He was most caring, courageous and compassionate. He had a brilliant mind, finding solutions for any challenge. He kept us honest and true – with his strong principles and ethical values. He remained on his land, in his family home, despite all that he endured. He was deeply respected, admired, and loved by those who worked with him.The loss of Ramzi and his family has devastated our team. UN staff and civilians in Gaza are not, and must never be, targets. The protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel must be upheld in accordance with international humanitarian law.This war must end. A ceasefire is urgently needed to prevent further atrocities. No family should have to endure the heartbreak and suffering that Ramzi’s loved ones, and so many others in Gaza, continue to face.On behalf of UNDP, I extend my deepest condolences to Ramzi’s family, his loved ones, our colleagues at UNDP/PAPP, and all those who had the honour of working alongside him.