Gaza Aid Distribution Centre Attack Leaves 24 Dead And Over 200 Injured In Rafah

Israeli forces targeted displaced Palestinians near Rafah city in southern Gaza, resulting in at least 24 deaths and over 200 injuries. The attack occurred as thousands awaited humanitarian aid. Local reports indicate that artillery and warplanes struck crowds gathered near an aid distribution centre at Al-Alam roundabout.

Doctors Without Borders highlighted the dangers of the current aid delivery system, noting that recent attacks have killed many Palestinians at US- and Israeli-backed distribution points. The organisation criticised the system's inhumanity and ineffectiveness, warning that using humanitarian aid as a weapon could constitute a crime against humanity.

Blood banks are running low, forcing medical teams to donate blood themselves to treat the injured. This situation underscores the dire need for a more effective and humane approach to aid distribution in Gaza.

Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA Commissioner-General, condemned the new aid mechanism as a "deadly trap." He urged Israel to lift its blockade and allow safe UN access for distributing humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza. Lazzarini stressed that independent UN operations are crucial to prevent famine among Gaza’s one million children.

Lazzarini also called for international media access to report on ongoing atrocities. He noted that under the current system, aid is limited to three or four locations, forcing civilians to travel long distances in dangerous conditions. Previously, aid was distributed across 400 sites.

Impact of Ongoing Conflict

The conflict has taken a heavy toll since 7th October 2023. Israeli military operations in Gaza have resulted in 54,470 Palestinian deaths—mostly women and children—and 124,693 injuries. The actual death toll may be higher due to victims trapped under rubble or inaccessible areas amid continued attacks.

Since the war began, 310 UNRWA staff members have lost their lives. These figures highlight the severe impact of ongoing hostilities on both civilians and humanitarian workers in Gaza.

The situation remains critical with escalating violence and restricted access to essential resources. Addressing these challenges requires urgent international intervention and cooperation to ensure safe and effective humanitarian assistance for those affected by the conflict.

With inputs from WAM