Tue Jun 03 10:12:22 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Death Toll Mounts Near Gaza Aid Hubs as Israeli Forces Kill Dozens Near Rafah**

**Rafah, Gaza Strip** – At least 27 Palestinians were killed and 90 wounded on Tuesday when Israeli forces opened fire near an aid distribution site in Rafah, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health. The incident occurred at the Flag Roundabout, near a hub operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).

This is the third such incident in as many days, bringing the death toll of aid seekers near these hubs to over 100 since the GHF, backed by the U.S. and Israel, began operations on May 27. Gaza authorities claim the GHF’s operation, established after an 11-week blockade, has led to violence and chaos around aid distribution.

The Israeli military stated its forces fired warning shots at “suspects” who deviated from designated routes to the distribution complex. They said the “suspects” were approximately 550 yards from the site and are investigating reports of casualties.

Eyewitness accounts paint a grim picture of the scene. Witnesses reported “indiscriminate” gunfire from Israeli forces using quadcopters and live ammunition, according to Al Jazeera’s Hind Khoudary. Rasha al-Nahal told The Associated Press that “there was gunfire from all directions,” and that Israeli troops “fired at us as we were returning”.

The Gaza Government Media Office accused Israel of “a horrific, intentionally repeated crime,” alleging that Palestinians are lured to GHF centers and then fired upon. They report 102 aid seekers have been killed and 490 injured since GHF operations began.

The United Nations has demanded an independent investigation into the repeated shootings. “It is unacceptable that Palestinians are risking their lives for food,” said Secretary General Antonio Guterres. “I call for an immediate and independent investigation into these events and for perpetrators to be held accountable.”

The Israeli military denies firing on civilians or blocking aid access, stating that warning shots were fired after individuals deviated from designated routes.

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