Guterres calls for probe into killings at Gaza aid sites

KABUL (Pajhwok): United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an immediate and independent investigation into the reported killing and injury of Palestinians seeking food aid in Gaza.

According to media reports, more than 30 people were killed and over 100 wounded while waiting for food at two distribution sites in Rafah and Middle Gaza, operated by the newly established Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).

In a statement issued on Monday, Guterres said he was “appalled” by the reports, declaring:

“It is unacceptable that Palestinians are risking their lives for food. I call for an immediate and independent investigation into these events and for the perpetrators to be held accountable.”

The UN chief emphasized that Israel has clear obligations under international humanitarian law to allow and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid.

He added: “The unimpeded entry of assistance at scale to meet the enormous needs in Gaza must be restored immediately.

The UN must be allowed to operate in safety and security, under conditions of full respect for humanitarian principles. I continue to call for an immediate, permanent, and sustainable ceasefire.”

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