Israeli Fire Near Rafah Aid Site Kills 31 Palestinians
At least 31 Palestinians were killed on Sunday by Israeli gunfire near an aid distribution point in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza. Local rescuers say over 120 others were injured, including many children.
The tragic event comes as ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas hit another major setback, with the United States calling Hamas’s latest response "totally unacceptable."
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Gaza
The attack took place near one of several new food distribution centres set up by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a US-backed group working independently from the United Nations.
The foundation, created to speed up aid deliveries, has distributed hundreds of thousands of meals since launching operations last week. But as supplies remain limited and demand grows, massive crowds have gathered at these sites, often in dangerous and disorganized conditions.
Chaos and Gunfire During Aid Rollout
Mahmud Bassal, a spokesperson for Gaza’s civil defence, told reporters that the shooting occurred while people were lining up for food. “At least 31 people have been killed, and over 120 injured. Many of them are children,” he said.
Eyewitnesses described panic and confusion, with people running for cover as gunfire rang out near the aid queue. “We came for food, not to die,” said one survivor.
U.S.-Backed Aid System Faces Challenges
The new aid delivery plan bypasses the traditional UN-led system, which has struggled due to road closures, security concerns, and lack of coordination between Israel and aid groups.
While the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has promised faster food access, critics say the lack of safety at distribution points is putting civilians at further risk.
International Anger Over Civilian Deaths
The incident has sparked renewed international criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Even some of Israel’s closest allies have expressed concern about the rising death toll and the worsening humanitarian crisis.
Global organizations, including the United Nations, warn that Gaza’s entire population is now at risk of famine. Food, water, and medical supplies have been limited for weeks, leaving civilians desperate.
Ceasefire Talks Falter Once Again
Efforts to reach a ceasefire have stalled. After weeks of negotiations, Hamas offered its latest proposal, but Washington quickly dismissed it. “Totally unacceptable,” said a U.S. official, without giving full details.
This collapse in talks adds to fears that the conflict will continue with no clear end in sight. Peace efforts have been ongoing for months but have failed to stop the violence or bring stability to the region.
Civilians Pay the Highest Price
As political talks fail and military actions continue, Gaza’s people continue to suffer. More than 30,000 Palestinians have died since the start of the conflict, according to local sources, with many more wounded or displaced.
Humanitarian workers are calling for better protection for civilians and aid teams. “People are starving and terrified,” said one aid volunteer. “We need safe zones, not more bloodshed.”