**UN Calls for Investigation into Killings of Palestinians in Gaza**
The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has called for an independent investigation into the killings of Palestinians in Gaza on Sunday. The incident occurred near a distribution center for humanitarian aid, where witnesses reported being shot.
According to reports from the Red Cross and Hamas’ Civil Defence agency, at least 31 people were killed and 176 injured in the attack. The Israeli military denied any involvement, saying that its troops had not fired at civilians in the area.
The UN Secretary-General expressed his alarm at the reports of Palestinians being killed and injured while seeking help in Gaza. He demanded an independent investigation into the incidents and called for perpetrators to be held accountable.
**Israel Denies Involvement**
The Israeli military claimed that its troops did not fire at civilians near or within the humanitarian aid distribution site. They accused Hamas of spreading false rumors and trying to prevent people from reaching the aid centers.
The Israeli government has been under pressure to respond to the killings, with many calling for an investigation into the incident.
**Aid Distribution Site Attacked**
Witnesses reported that a crowd of Palestinians gathered near the al-Alam Roundabout in Rafah, close to the humanitarian aid distribution site. When Israeli tanks approached, they opened fire.
A video posted online appeared to show Palestinians hiding in an open area with sand while automatic gunfire rang out. However, the BBC could not verify the location or authenticity of the footage.
**Hamas Reports 31 Deaths**
Hamas’ Civil Defence agency reported that 31 people were killed and 176 injured in the attack. The Israeli military released drone footage claiming to show armed men shooting at civilians as they tried to reach humanitarian aid.
However, the BBC was unable to verify when or where the footage was filmed. A senior Israeli military official said that soldiers had prevented suspects from approaching forces about 1km away from the aid distribution site before it opened.
**More Palestinians Killed**
On Monday, local media and health officials reported that three more Palestinians were killed by Israeli gunfire near the same aid center in Rafah’s Tal al-Sultan. A Red Cross spokesman informed the Associated Press that its field hospital had received 50 wounded patients, most of whom suffered gunshot and shrapnel injuries.
Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis reported receiving a third body. The Israeli military said it was “aware” of reports of casualties and that the incident’s details were being thoroughly investigated.
**Blockade Continues**
Israel imposed a complete blockade on Gaza on March 2, followed by a resumed offensive two weeks later. The Israeli government has stated that the measures are taken to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages held in Gaza.
At least 54,470 Palestinians have died in Gaza since October 2023, including 4,201 deaths since Israel resumed its offensive.
