Rafah, Gaza Strip – A forensic doctor who examined the bodies of 15 paramedics and Palestinian rescue workers, who were killed by Israeli forces and buried in a mass grave in southern Gaza, has raised concerns about the manner of their deaths. The bodies bore evidence of execution-style killings based on the close range and intentional location of the gunshot wounds.
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society, Palestinian Civil Defense, and UN employees were on a humanitarian mission outside Rafah when they were shot and buried in the sand by a bulldozer along with their vehicles. The incident occurred as Israel escalated its attacks in Gaza after ending a ceasefire.
The killings of the paramedics and rescue workers have sparked outrage globally, with demands for accountability. UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, condemned the situation, labeling Gaza as the most dangerous place for humanitarian workers.
A forensic consultant who examined the bodies stated that all victims died from bullet wounds, with specific and intentional locations of the gunshot wounds suggesting they were executed at close range. Some of the bodies showed signs of being tied up, indicating possible detention before death.
The Israeli Defense Forces justified the shooting, claiming the ambulances were approaching suspiciously without proper signaling. However, eyewitnesses and survivors contradicted this account, asserting that the vehicles were clearly marked as humanitarian.
Since the ceasefire ended, Israeli military operations in Gaza have intensified, resulting in numerous civilian casualties. The violence has drawn international condemnation, with calls for restraint and accountability for the loss of innocent lives. The situation remains tense, with no immediate resolution in sight.