An Israeli drone attack killed eight volunteers working for the Al Kaea Foundation, a British charity, as they set up tents for Palestinians in northern Gaza.
Palestinian media reported that at least nine people, including three journalists, were killed in the attack in Beit Rahia, Gaza, which targeted a relief team with journalists and photographers, and several more were attacked in Beit Rahia, Gaza.
Qasim Rashid Ahmad, founder and chairman of the Al-Khair Foundation, told the BBC on Saturday that the team was in Beitrahea and set up tents for displaced people.
He says he was hit when the cameraman returned to his car, and after a while the Israeli drone targeted a team member who rushed over to the scene.
Middle East Eye contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for comment but did not receive a response by the time of publication.
The Palestinian Journalist Conservation Centre has identified video editors Bilal Abu Matar and Cameramen Mahmoud Al-Sarraj, Bilal Aqila and Mahmoud Asleem were killed in the attack.
The Centre said, “Journalists were documenting humanitarian relief efforts for those affected by the Israeli war of massacre.”
“Serious Violation of International Law”
Hamas called the attack a “terrifying massacre” and a dangerous escalation that reflects (Israel) claims to continue the “Israel” attacks and ignore all international law and treaties.”
Israeli forces allegedly clashed with “two terrorists… operating the drone that poses a threat.” “Later, many additional terrorists gathered drone operating devices and entered the vehicle. (Military) attacked the terrorists,” he added.
The military gave no evidence of that claim.
An independent British MP for Leicester South Shockatt Adam said:
“I personally contact the charity, who has offices in my constituency and writes to the Minister to request an independent and transparent investigation into the facts.”
Wajid Actor, Secretary-General of the Muslim British Council, said:
“Israel allies have a moral obligation to acknowledge these atrocities and take critical action to ensure such a serious violation of international humanitarian law.
“We are asking the UK government to condemn these actions on the strongest possible terms.”