Daijiworld Media Network - Gaza

Gaza, Jun 3: At least 27 Palestinians were killed and 90 injured after Israeli forces opened fire near an aid distribution point in Rafah early Tuesday, Gaza's Ministry of Health reported.

The incident occurred at the Flag Roundabout, close to a Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) aid hub. It marked the third such deadly shooting at the Rafah distribution area since GHF, backed by the US and Israel, began operating on May 27 following an 11-week total blockade.

Witnesses described scenes of chaos and indiscriminate gunfire. “We heard from witnesses that Israeli forces opened fire randomly, using quadcopters and live ammunition,” said Al Jazeera reporter Hind Khoudary. Most injuries were to the chest and head, health officials confirmed.

The Israeli military claimed it targeted "a number of suspects" who strayed from designated routes and ignored warnings, but denied firing on civilians or blocking access to aid. A military statement said it was reviewing reports of casualties.

The Gaza Health Ministry said Tuesday’s toll brought the number of deaths at aid sites in Rafah and the Netzarim Corridor to 102, with nearly 500 injured in just over a week.
The UN has called for an independent investigation. “It is unacceptable that Palestinians are risking their lives for food,” said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. “Perpetrators must be held accountable.”

Eyewitnesses described desperate scenes. “There was gunfire from all directions,” said Rasha al-Nahal. “Israeli troops fired at us as we were returning – and there was no aid left.”
Neima al-Aaraj, a survivor from Khan Younis, said she wouldn’t return. “Either way, we will die,” she added.

The GHF has faced criticism for taking over aid distribution from the UN and other agencies, with Gaza’s Government Media Office accusing Israel of using the centres to lure and attack starving civilians.