UN Demands Probe into Gaza Aid Site Deaths
On June 3, 2025, at least 27 Palestinians were killed and over 160 injured near an aid distribution site in Rafah, southern Gaza. The incident marks the third consecutive day of deadly violence at aid centers operated by the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged firing “warning shots” at individuals who deviated from designated access routes and approached military positions. The IDF stated that the incident occurred outside the secure distribution zone and is under investigation.
Eyewitnesses reported chaos and confusion as civilians gathered to receive food aid. Many described scenes of panic, with people running for cover amid gunfire. Medical facilities, including the International Committee of the Red Cross field hospital in Rafah and Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, were overwhelmed with casualties.
UN Calls for Independent Investigation
The United Nations has condemned the attacks on civilians seeking humanitarian aid. UN human rights chief Volker Türk stated:
“Deadly attacks on distraught civilians trying to access the paltry amounts of food aid in Gaza are unconscionable… Attacks directed against civilians constitute a grave breach of international law and a war crime.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the urgency of the situation, saying:
“It is unacceptable that Palestinians are risking their lives for food.”
He called for an immediate and independent investigation into the events and for perpetrators to be held accountable.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The GHF, established to provide aid amidst Gaza’s worsening humanitarian crisis, has faced criticism for its operations. Critics argue that the foundation’s approach bypasses traditional aid organizations and lacks adherence to established humanitarian principles. The recent incidents have intensified scrutiny over the safety and effectiveness of aid distribution in the region.
Medical facilities in Gaza are overwhelmed, with hospitals like Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis receiving a surge of casualties. The International Committee of the Red Cross reported receiving 184 casualties, including 19 dead upon arrival and eight who succumbed to their injuries shortly after.
International Response and Ongoing Conflict
The Israeli government has defended its military’s actions, stating that the IDF is committed to facilitating humanitarian aid and that the recent incidents are under investigation. However, the UN and various humanitarian organizations have called for accountability and a reevaluation of aid distribution methods in Gaza.
The ongoing conflict, which began in October 2023, has resulted in over 54,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire have stalled, with Hamas demanding a permanent end to hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.
As the humanitarian situation deteriorates, the international community continues to urge for immediate action to protect civilians and ensure the safe delivery of essential aid.
