Introduction
In a fresh escalation of tensions surrounding humanitarian aid in Gaza aid, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an immediate and independent investigation into the reported killing of Palestinians near an aid distribution site in Rafah. The incident, which occurred early Sunday morning, has drawn global concern, with conflicting reports emerging from the Israeli military, international aid organizations, and local witnesses.
What Happened in Rafah?
According to local eyewitnesses and humanitarian groups, Israeli forces allegedly opened fire on civilians gathered near an aid distribution site operated by the US- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) in Rafah’s Tal al-Sultan district. The Red Cross reported that its field hospital received 179 casualties, including 21 fatalities, while Hamas-run Civil Defence claimed the death toll reached 31.
UN and Humanitarian Groups Speak Out
Guterres expressed his outrage on Monday, stating: “I am appalled by the reports of Palestinians killed and injured while seeking aid in Gaza. I call for an immediate and independent investigation.” UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk echoed the sentiment, describing the situation as “dehumanising” and a clear sign of disregard for civilians desperately in need Gaza aid.
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and the Red Cross confirmed that many of the injured suffered from gunshot wounds, including head and chest injuries. MSF also reported first-hand accounts alleging Israeli fire from drones, tanks, and helicopters.
Israel and GHF Deny Responsibility
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) denied targeting civilians, stating that “no troops fired at civilians near or within the humanitarian aid distribution site.” A military official claimed soldiers had only fired warning shots at suspects 1km away from the GHF site.
The GHF also issued a strong denial, labeling the reports as “outright fabrications” and affirming that “no injuries, fatalities, or incidents” occurred at or near their facility during operations.
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee condemned the media coverage as “reckless and irresponsible,” accusing journalists of spreading Hamas-sourced misinformation and fueling antisemitic sentiments.
Visual Evidence and On-Ground Reports
Videos posted online show people ducking for cover and bodies near the aid site, but the BBC and other outlets have not independently verified their authenticity due to restricted access to Gaza. A journalist from Rafah, Mohammed Ghareeb, described scenes of chaos and noted that victims were transported on donkey carts due to lack of access for rescue vehicles.
Additional Casualties on Monday
Amid ongoing operations, three more Palestinians were killed Monday near the same GHF site. The Red Cross and local hospitals confirmed receiving dozens of wounded with similar injuries. In northern Gaza, 14 people—including six children—were reported dead after an Israeli airstrike on a residential building in Jabalia.
Background: The Resumed Offensive
Since resuming military operations in March following a ceasefire collapse, Israel has escalated its offensive to pressure Hamas into releasing 58 remaining hostages. Prime Minister Netanyahu recently vowed to “take control of all areas of Gaza,” with limited food aid now allowed in “basic” quantities.
Conclusion
The conflicting narratives and growing death toll are exacerbating calls for accountability and transparency. With mounting casualties, pressure is building on the international community to demand an impartial investigation into the events near the Rafah aid site and broader conduct in the Gaza conflict.
More updates to follow as the story develops.
External Resources
- UN Secretary-General Statement on Gaza Incident
- Red Cross Gaza Hospital Report
- Médecins Sans Frontières Report
Internal Links
