India expresses deep shock at loss of lives in Gaza

New Delhi, Mar 1: A press release issued by the Ministry of External Affairs read, “We are deeply shocked at the loss of lives in Northern Gaza yesterday during the delivery of humanitarian assistance.”

The press release further said, “Such loss of civilian lives and the larger humanitarian situation of Gaza Continues to be a cause for extreme worry. We reiterate our call for safe and timely delivery of humanitarian aid and assistance.”

Following the deaths of over 100 Palestinians during an aid delivery in Gaza, several countries have joined the United Nations in calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.

On Thursday, at least 117 people were killed and more than 760 injured as they gathered around aid lorries. UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the incident, emphasising the urgent need to assist the desperate civilians affected.

While Hamas accused Israel of firing at civilians, Israel countered, stating that most fatalities occurred due to a crush following warning shots.

International condemnation of Israel intensified, with French President Emmanuel Macron asserting that civilians had been targeted by Israeli soldiers. The EU's foreign policy chief, Josep Borell, labelled the incident as "totally unacceptable carnage."

Expressing his dismay on social media, Guterres emphasized the urgent need for aid in Gaza, particularly in areas inaccessible to the UN for over a week.

France, Italy, and Germany have also echoed the call for an independent investigation into the aid convoy deaths.

The incident occurred near the Nabulsi roundabout on the southwestern edge of Gaza City, as a convoy of 30 lorries carrying Egyptian aid made its way north through a humanitarian corridor secured by Israeli forces.

According to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), civilians surrounded the convoy, leading to chaos and violence. IDF spokesman Rear Adm Daniel Hagari stated that warning shots were fired to disperse the crowd, but the situation escalated beyond control. Gaza rejected the IDF's account, alleging direct firing at civilians, including fatal headshots.

The tragic incident occurred amidst ongoing conflict, with Gaza's health ministry reporting over 30,000 deaths and 70,450 injuries since the conflict began on October 7. Guterres reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of hostages in the region.