UN calls for independent investigation after Gaza aid site deaths

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for an independent investigation into the deaths of at least 31 Palestinians near a US-backed aid distribution site in Gaza, following reports that 'Israeli' forces opened fire on people trying to access food.

“I am appalled by the reports of Palestinians killed and injured while seeking aid in Gaza yesterday. It is unacceptable that Palestinians are risking their lives for food,” Guterres said in a statement.

He called for “an immediate and independent investigation into these events and for those responsible to be held accountable.”

The incident took place near a controversial aid distribution site managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation — a new mechanism supported by 'Israel' and the US but rejected by the UN and other humanitarian organizations.

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation later denied the allegations, stating that no injuries or fatalities occurred that day and that 'Israeli' forces did not open fire on civilians. Despite this, Palestinian rescuers at the scene blamed 'Israeli' gunfire for the casualties, which also left dozens injured.