Gaza: In a troubling incident, an aid convoy from the United Nations, operated by the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA), faced gunfire from Israeli forces as it entered the Gaza Strip. The attack, reported on Thursday afternoon, resulted in damage to one vehicle but, fortunately, did not cause any casualties.
UNRWA’s director in Gaza, Tom White, confirmed the incident, stating that Israeli soldiers fired upon the convoy as it followed a route designated by the Israeli army. The convoy leader and team members escaped unharmed.
Responding to queries, the Israeli military acknowledged the incident and mentioned that they are investigating the matter.
The attack occurred amid heightened tensions, with Israel conducting airstrikes in south and central Gaza. Egypt is concurrently hosting high-level talks with a Hamas delegation in an attempt to negotiate an end to the 12-week-long conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Recent Israeli shelling near Khan Yunis has claimed over 41 lives in two days, according to the Palestinian Red Crescent Society. The intensified fighting has displaced an estimated 100,000 people, seeking refuge in the city of Rafah.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated on October 7, resulting in substantial casualties. Israel has vowed to dismantle Hamas, labeled a “terrorist” group by the US and EU, leading to an ongoing war with significant humanitarian repercussions.
