Tank fire and gunshots were reportedly heard May 27 near a newly opened aid distribution center on the outskirts of Rafah, as massive crowds of Palestinians attempted to reach the site in hopes of receiving desperately needed food and supplies, AP reported.
The distribution hub, in its second day of operations, was established with US backing and is expected to become a central node in humanitarian aid delivery across southern Gaza. The area has seen increasing desperation as the humanitarian crisis deepens amid ongoing conflict.
Witnesses at the scene reported hearing bursts of gunfire followed by the distinct sound of tank rounds. Smoke was seen rising from the area where one of the shells appeared to hit. It remains unclear whether there were any injuries.
The aid center, located just beyond Israeli military lines, drew hundreds of thousands of Palestinians navigating a tense and volatile landscape to collect food and relief items. The firing incident occurred as the crowds surged toward the site, underscoring the dangerous conditions surrounding aid delivery in the war-torn enclave.
There has been no official response yet from the Israeli military regarding the incident, AP reported.
The situation remains tense as relief efforts struggle to meet overwhelming demand in a region plagued by shortages, insecurity, and ongoing military operations.
