The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed carrying out an airstrike on a humanitarian aid convoy in Gaza, claiming it was aimed at armed assailants trying to hijack the convoy. The convoy was organized by the US-based NGO Anera and was delivering medical supplies and fuel to a hospital in Rafah. However, Anera has stated that the individuals killed in the strike were actually employees of the transportation company working with them.
The IDF stated that they coordinated the convoy’s route with Anera but claimed armed assailants took control of one of the vehicles, prompting the airstrike to neutralize the threat. Anera’s country director in Palestine, Sandra Rasheed, called the incident shocking and confirmed that the convoy did reach its intended destination.
This incident comes after a recent shooting by Israeli soldiers on a World Food Programme vehicle, prompting the WFP to temporarily suspend movement of its staff in Gaza. The head of WFP, Cindy McCain, called the shooting unacceptable and criticized the current deconfliction system in place.
This is not the first time that Israeli forces have mistakenly targeted humanitarian aid convoys, as seven aid workers were killed in a drone attack in April. The IDF admitted to errors in that incident and fired two officers responsible. Despite claims of armed assailants and miscommunication, these incidents highlight the dangers faced by humanitarian organizations operating in conflict zones like Gaza.
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