On June 3, 2025, at least 27 Palestinians were killed and many others wounded near a food distribution point in Rafah, located in southern Gaza, according to local medical sources. This incident follows two consecutive days of fatal events near aid distribution sites in the region.
The Israeli military stated that its forces fired at individuals who reportedly left authorized access routes and approached military positions. An investigation is currently underway to determine the exact circumstances.
The United Nations condemned the incident, warning that intentional interference with humanitarian aid and attacks on civilians could amount to war crimes. The organization has called for an independent inquiry.
The aid distribution center involved is operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a U.S.-supported organization. GHF indicated that the violence occurred beyond the immediate area of its operations and that its activities continued as planned. However, the group has faced criticism from established aid agencies for working outside formal humanitarian frameworks and creating possible security risks at its sites.
Since the start of the war in October 2023—triggered by a deadly Hamas-led assault on Israel that resulted in numerous Israeli casualties and hostages—more than 54,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed, according to Gaza health authorities. Efforts to reach a ceasefire remain at an impasse amid continuing military activity and severe humanitarian challenges.
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Based on reporting from Reuters and CNN, June 3, 2025.
GAZA — At least 144 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza on May 19, 2025, including attacks near a major hospital in the north of the besieged enclave, according to local health officials. The bombardment has intensified fears of a deepening humanitarian crisis as civilian casualties mount and critical infrastructure comes under fire.
The strikes reportedly targeted areas near Al-Shifa Hospital in northern Gaza, one of the territory’s last functioning medical centers. While the extent of damage to the hospital remains unclear, medical staff reported nearby explosions disrupting operations. The World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly warned that attacks on healthcare facilities violate international law and endanger civilian lives.
The latest deaths bring the total Palestinian fatalities since the renewed escalation began to over [latest verified number], with thousands more injured. Rescue teams continue to search for survivors under rubble as Israel maintains its offensive, citing ongoing security threats.
Gaza’s health system, already crippled by months of conflict, faces severe shortages of medical supplies, electricity, and clean water. The UN has warned of imminent famine in northern Gaza if aid access does not improve.
The United Nations and several governments have called for an immediate ceasefire, with growing pressure on Israel to halt its military campaign. Meanwhile, Hamas and other Palestinian factions continue to demand an end to Israel’s blockade and occupation.
Source: Al Jazeera, UN OCHA, WHO
Photo: Gaza, by Jaber Jehad Badwan. Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International
Photo: Gaza, by Jaber Jehad Badwan. Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International
Intensified Israeli military operations in Gaza have resulted in at least 146 Palestinian deaths over a 72-hour period, according to local health authorities. The campaign, called "Operation Gideon's Chariots," aims to dismantle Hamas’s infrastructure and secure the release of hostages taken during the October 2023 attacks.
Israeli forces have deployed ground units and tanks along Gaza’s perimeter, with airstrikes targeting areas such as Beit Lahiya, Jabalia, and Khan Younis. The strikes have caused extensive civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure.
Ceasefire negotiations have resumed in Doha, where Hamas proposed a 60-day truce and the release of nine hostages in exchange for increased humanitarian access. Israel has requested proof of life for all hostages but has not officially responded.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to worsen, with hospitals overwhelmed, medical supplies depleted, and food aid restricted. UN officials warn of imminent famine if aid is not restored.
International leaders have voiced strong concern. At a Baghdad summit, Arab states condemned Israel’s actions, and Italy’s foreign minister called for an immediate halt to the offensive to protect civilians and allow aid deliveries.
Since hostilities resumed in March following a collapsed ceasefire, more than 53,000 Palestinians have reportedly died, and nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have been displaced.
Sources: Reuters, BBC, CNN