At least 31 Palestinians were killed in Rafah on Sunday during what was initially reported as an Israeli attack on a humanitarian aid distribution point. However, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have denied any involvement and instead blamed Hamas for deliberately targeting civilians, alleging that the militant group is trying to block the distribution of food in southern Gaza. The incident has further inflamed an already volatile situation, with competing claims and high civilian casualties continuing to draw global concern.
Israel Releases Drone Footage, Denies Responsibility
Following widespread accusations, Israel released drone footage that it claims shows armed Hamas militants firing at Palestinians who had gathered to collect humanitarian aid. The IDF stated that their forces did not fire “near or within” the vicinity of the aid site and maintained that no Israeli personnel were responsible for the deaths. They also warned international media to verify facts before publishing reports based on Hamas sources, which they described as often misleading or false.
The footage, shared on social media, was accompanied by a message accusing Hamas of using violent means to obstruct food aid. Israel alleges that this is part of a broader effort by Hamas to maintain control and unrest in Gaza by deepening the humanitarian crisis. The incident occurred in an area reportedly under Israeli military control, raising further questions about how the attack unfolded and who exactly was responsible.
Hamas and Health Officials Reject Israel’s Claims
Gaza’s health ministry, along with representatives from the Palestine Red Crescent Society, have firmly blamed Israeli forces for the deaths. According to medical officials, the victims were all shot in either the head or chest, indicating what they believe was intentional targeting. A local health official told CNN that while the identity of the shooter could not be confirmed, the responsibility ultimately lies with Israel because its forces maintain operational control in the region.
Hamas described the incident as a “new massacre” targeting hungry civilians, especially painful given the setting at a humanitarian aid center. The tragedy unfolded just hours after Hamas formally responded to a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal—a response Washington has labeled as “unacceptable.” The timing of the shooting has only deepened mistrust and reinforced the perception among many that peace remains a distant goal.
