**Israeli Fire Kills 27 Palestinians in Gaza**
A devastating incident has occurred in the Gaza Strip, where Israeli fire killed at least 27 Palestinians as they attempted to collect aid near a distribution site. The victims were trying to gather humanitarian assistance, but their efforts were met with violence.
According to eyewitnesses and officials from Hamas’ Civil Defence Agency, Israeli forces fired on civilians near the al-Alam Roundabout, about 1km from the aid site. This area is crucial for Palestinians who need access to essential supplies. The incident has sparked outrage and concern among international human rights organizations.
**Eyewitness Accounts**
Local residents and medical professionals described the horror of the event. Atef al-Hout, director of Nasser hospital in Khan Younis, reported that 24 people were killed and 37 injured, all with gunshot wounds. Another eyewitness shared a harrowing account of watching friends and family members fall to gunfire while trying to collect aid.
**Background on Gaza’s Humanitarian Crisis**
The situation in Gaza has been dire for months, with Palestinians facing severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. The UN had previously distributed aid directly to communities at 400 locations, but a new system was implemented by the Israel- and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). This change requires civilians to travel long distances, often under armed escort, to collect aid.
Critics have condemned this approach as “weaponizing aid” and contrary to humanitarian principles. The UN has expressed concerns that this new system puts Palestinians at greater risk of violence and injury while trying to access essential supplies.
**International Reaction**
The incident on Tuesday has sparked condemnation from international leaders. UN human rights chief Volker Turk stated, “For the third day in a row, people have been killed around a distribution site for aid.” He emphasized that Palestinians are forced to choose between starvation or risking their lives to obtain meager food supplies.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres demanded an independent investigation into these incidents and called for perpetrators to be held accountable. The International Committee of the Red Cross reported a “massive casualty influx” at its hospital in Rafah following Sunday’s incident.
**Investigations and Reactions**
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that their initial findings showed no evidence of firing on people near or inside the aid center. However, eyewitness accounts contradict this claim. The GHF denied claims of injuries and fatalities at their site, attributing these to Hamas’ propaganda efforts.
In response to criticism, the GHF appointed Reverend Dr Johnnie Moore as its new leader, a Christian evangelist pastor who has been a prominent supporter of US President Donald Trump.
**Conclusion**
The incident in Gaza highlights the urgent need for an independent and impartial investigation into these tragic events. The international community must hold perpetrators accountable and ensure that humanitarian principles are upheld, prioritizing the safety and dignity of civilians trying to access essential supplies.
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