The UN has called for an independent investigation into the deaths of Palestinians near a Gaza aid distribution center amidst conflicting accounts of Israeli troops opening fire. Witnesses reported violence during food distribution in Rafah, while Israeli forces deny any such action, dubbing reports of casualties as misleading.
UN Demands Inquiry Following Fatal Shootings at Gaza Aid Distribution Site
UN Demands Inquiry Following Fatal Shootings at Gaza Aid Distribution Site
Amid escalating tensions, the UN Secretary-General requests a thorough investigation into the deaths of Palestinians near a humanitarian aid center, attributed to reported Israeli gunfire.
The UN Secretary-General has urged for an immediate and independent inquiry following tragic events near a humanitarian aid distribution center in Gaza on Sunday, where numerous Palestinians reportedly were killed amidst claims of Israeli military gunfire. The aid distribution site, operated by the US and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), became the focal point of chaotic scenes as large crowds assembled for assistance.
Witnesses claim that as they awaited food, shots rang out, causing panic and injuries. The International Red Cross reported treating 179 individuals, 21 of whom succumbed to their wounds, while Hamas' Civil Defence agency cited a higher death toll of 31. The situation has drawn international attention, especially after UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed grave concern over the reports of deadly violence against those seeking aid.
The Israeli military has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that their troops did not fire on civilians at the aid site, labeling the reports as "false." The GHF echoed this sentiment, describing the allegations as "outright fabrications" and asserting that no incident occurred under their auspices. Such claims are difficult to verify, given the restrictions on media access to Gaza.
On the heels of these events, tensions escalated further as another shooting near the same GHF site resulted in additional casualties. The Red Cross reported receiving more wounded, raising alarms as humanitarian needs increase amid military operations in the region.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, with calls from the international community for accountability and transparency in the ongoing conflict amid persistent violence. Israel maintains a strict blockade on Gaza, a situation showing little sign of resolution as clashes between military forces and civilians continue to claim lives.
This latest tragedy underscores the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with aid organizations voicing alarm over the safety of those who are simply seeking vital assistance amidst an increasingly volatile situation.
