Israeli Attack Near Rafah Aid Center Kills 27

International Desk : In a tragic incident, at least 27 civilians were killed and over 90 injured due to Israeli forces' gunfire near an aid distribution center in Rafah, located in the southern part of the besieged Gaza Strip. The attack took place on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, according to reports from Gaza's rescuers cited by AFP.

Mahmoud Basal, spokesperson for Gaza’s Civil Defense Department, stated that Israeli forces used tanks and drones to fire indiscriminately on civilians gathered to receive aid from a U.S. organization in Rafah’s Al-Alam area, resulting in significant casualties. A similar attack in the same location on Sunday had claimed 31 lives and injured 176, though Israel denied responsibility for that incident.

Eyewitnesses and locals reported that thousands had gathered near Al-Alam intersection since dawn to collect aid when Israeli forces began firing from tanks and drones. Gaza’s Health Ministry confirmed that the death toll reached 27, with over 90 people wounded.

The Israeli military claimed it did not target civilians, stating that shots were fired as a precautionary measure when suspected individuals approached their forces. However, locals and witnesses assert that Israeli forces directly targeted unarmed civilians, leading to numerous deaths. Rania Al-Astal, a woman at the scene, recounted, “I was with my husband to get aid, but the sound of gunfire forced everyone to flee.”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the incident, calling for justice and an impartial investigation. He stated, “It is utterly unacceptable that Gazans are risking their lives for food.”

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), responsible for aid distribution, reported that its operations continue despite challenges, noting that some individuals were injured due to incursions into military zones. They are awaiting the outcome of an Israeli investigation.

Since the ceasefire in Gaza collapsed on March 18, Israel has repeatedly obstructed aid deliveries. Although limited aid distribution through GHF has recently resumed, it remains grossly inadequate to meet the population’s needs.

AI/MR