Deadly Clashes in Rafah as Israeli Fire Claims Palestinian Lives Near Aid Distribution Centre

Local medics and witnesses report that Israeli tank shelling and gunfire near an aid distribution centre in Rafah led to the deaths of 15 Palestinians and over 100 injuries. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza prompts renewed calls for a ceasefire as desperation grows among civilians.

At least 15 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives as a result of Israeli military actions in Rafah, close to a humanitarian aid distribution centre, according to local medical sources. The incident is reported to have occurred when hundreds of Palestinians were gathered for food assistance near the US-funded Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Eyewitnesses state that Israeli tanks initiated fire on the crowd, resulting in multiple casualties.

Mohammed Ghareeb, a journalist based in the area, relayed the grim details to the BBC, emphasizing that the scene was chaotic as bodies and injured individuals were being taken to a Red Cross field hospital on donkey carts, as traditional rescue services could not access the area due to Israeli control. Ghareeb noted, "The dead and wounded lay on the ground for a long time," highlighting the challenges faced by the local community during such crises.

Reports cite that 15 bodies and 50 injured individuals have been received at a nearby medical facility, with further transfers planned to Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. Civil defense officials have indicated that the total number of wounded may exceed 100. These casualties reflect the strained humanitarian situation that many residents of Rafah endure, facing severe limitations on access to food and medical assistance as Israeli operations continue.

The humanitarian turmoil in Gaza has been further exacerbated by chaotic scenes surrounding aid shipments, with many civilians rushing towards trucks delivering much-needed resources. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation states that they have distributed millions of meals recently, though independent verification is pending.

This incident coincides with ongoing diplomatic efforts by the United States to negotiate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. While Hamas has shown willingness to release hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, they continue to call for a more comprehensive truce with assurances for humanitarian support. However, US envoy Steve Witkoff has expressed that the proposals on the table are insufficient and may halt progress toward a long-lasting solution amidst growing tensions.