UN chief calls for probe after deaths at Gaza distribution point

UN Secretary General António Guterres has called for consequences following reports of numerous deaths near a humanitarian aid distribution centre in Gaza.

"The secretary general condemns the loss of lives and injuries of Palestinians seeking aid in Gaza," UN spokesman Stéphane Dujarric said on Tuesday. He described the situation as an "unthinkable loss of life."

"It is unacceptable civilians are risking and in several instances, losing their lives just trying to get food," he said.

According to Palestinian sources, Israeli soldiers have reportedly shot many people again near a humanitarian aid distribution centre in the Gaza Strip. The health authority, controlled by the Islamist organization Hamas, reported that at least 27 Palestinians were killed and around 90 others injured near the southern city of Rafah.

The Israeli army stated that soldiers saw suspects about half a kilometre from the distribution centre who approached them and posed a threat.

The suspects deviated from the designated paths to the aid centre while a large crowd moved along the regular routes. Soldiers initially fired warning shots but, as the suspects did not retreat, they shot at individuals.