Introduction: Rising Civilian Toll Amid Gaza Aid Distribution
At least 27 Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire near an aid distribution centre Gaza aid centre in Gaza’s Rafah area, as civilians attempted to collect desperately needed humanitarian supplies. This incident underscores the volatile conditions surrounding aid delivery in the region amid ongoing conflict and military operations.
The Incident: Chaos and Gunfire Near Aid Distribution Site
According to Gaza’s Hamas-run Civil Defence agency, Israeli forces opened fire using tanks, drones, and helicopters near the al-Alam roundabout, approximately 1 km from the aid centre. Witnesses described “total carnage” with civilians caught in crossfire while waiting for aid. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed troops fired warning shots at “suspects” who deviated from safe access routes, though multiple eyewitnesses and NGOs dispute this version.
Eyewitness Accounts Reveal Horror
Local witnesses recounted intense shelling and machine-gun fire as Palestinians gathered in the early hours, many fleeing or collapsing under fire. Nadeem Zarab, a local journalist, described chaotic scenes of gunfire from all directions and civilians desperately seeking cover. Medical staff at Nasser Hospital reported receiving dozens of dead and wounded with gunshot injuries, describing the aftermath as overwhelming.
Humanitarian Aid System Under Scrutiny
The current aid distribution is managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), backed by Israel and the US, replacing the UN’s previous direct community deliveries. This new system requires Palestinians to queue at sites located in heavily controlled military zones, creating logistical challenges and security risks. The first-come, first-served basis forces Palestinians to wait overnight in large crowds, increasing vulnerability.
International Reactions and Calls for Accountability
UN human rights chief Volker Türk condemned the violence, stating Palestinians face “the grimmest of choices: die from starvation or risk being killed while trying to access meagre food.” UN Secretary-General António Guterres demanded an immediate independent investigation into the shootings and accountability for the victims.
Context: Escalating Conflict and Civilian Impact
Since Israel’s military response to Hamas’ October 2023 attack, Gaza has suffered extensive civilian casualties, with over 54,000 deaths reported, including 4,200 since March 2025 alone. The humanitarian situation remains dire, compounded by disrupted aid delivery and ongoing military operations. Restricted media access into Gaza makes independent verification difficult, further complicating the situation.
Conclusion: The Need for Safe Humanitarian Access
The deadly shooting near the Gaza aid centre highlights the urgent need for secure, impartial humanitarian aid channels and protection for civilians caught in conflict zones. The international community continues to call for accountability and improved mechanisms to ensure aid reaches those in desperate need without further loss of life.
For a deeper understanding of the ongoing crisis, read our comprehensive guide Understanding the Gaza Humanitarian Crisis.
Learn more about the UN’s humanitarian efforts and calls for investigation at the UN News site.
For official updates on the humanitarian situation in Gaza, visit the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) – Occupied Palestinian Territory.
