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UN calls for investigation after dozens of Palestinians killed near Gaza aid center
The United Nations has demanded an independent probe after Israeli forces allegedly killed over 30 Palestinians near an aid distribution site in Rafah, southern Gaza. The victims had gathered in desperation to receive food amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Gaza’s civil defence reported that Israeli gunfire killed at least 31 people and injured 176. The incident occurred near a center managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a recently formed aid group backed by the United States. Eyewitnesses described drones and tanks opening fire on the crowd. Photographs showed civilians carrying bodies and hospitals overwhelmed by gunshot wounds.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern and called for an “immediate and independent investigation.” He stated, “It is unacceptable that Palestinians are risking their lives for food,” but refrained from directly blaming Israel.
Controversy over US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation
The GHF operates four aid sites in southern and central Gaza, coordinating directly with Israeli forces but without UN oversight. This has led to widespread criticism. Major international aid organizations have refused to collaborate with the GHF, citing concerns over its impartiality and alignment with Israeli interests.
In response to the incident, the GHF denied that any attack occurred at its site, labeling reports of deaths and injuries as “fake news actively spread by Hamas.” The Israeli army echoed this stance, asserting that an initial internal investigation found no gunfire directed at civilians near or inside the aid center. A military spokesperson accused Hamas of fabricating the incident to tarnish Israel’s image.
Humanitarian conditions deteriorating
The tragedy unfolded against a backdrop of mounting desperation. Gaza has seen two months of aid blockades. Although limited supplies have recently entered, the UN warns of looming famine affecting the entire population.
Eyewitness Sameh Hamuda, 33, said Israeli quadcopters fired into the crowd, followed by tank shelling. Abdullah Barbakh, 58, supported this account, saying the army “opened fire from drones and tanks.”
While Israel continues to deny involvement, calls for a transparent investigation are growing. The UN and other agencies stress the need for credible humanitarian access and accountability as Gaza’s crisis deepens.
