Concerned About The Shooting In Gaza That Killed Civilians, European Union Calls For Transparent Investigation

Illustration of the European Union. (Wikimedia Commons/Thijs ter Haar)

JAKARTA - EU officials are concerned about the shooting incident that killed hundreds of civilians in Gaza, and injured hundreds more, calling for a transparent investigation.

At least 112 people were killed and more than 280 injured in Thursday's Gaza City incident, Palestinian health officials said. The civilian casualties this time were the largest in recent weeks, as quoted by Al Jazeera March 1.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday expressed concern about the situation, reaffirming her alignment with civilians.

"Very disturbed by the pictures from Gaza. Any effort must be made to investigate what happened and ensure transparency," he wrote on social media X.

"Humanist aid is a savior for those in need and access to the aid must be ensured," he continued.

"We support civilians, urge their protection in line with international law," said von der Leyen.

Meanwhile, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said deaths from the incident were unacceptable, highlighting the importance of access to humanitarian aid.

"I am horrified by the news about another massacre among civilians in Gaza who desperately need humanitarian assistance," he wrote on X.

"These deaths are completely unacceptable," he said.

Earlier, United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the killing of more than 100 people awaiting humanitarian assistance in the Gaza Strip, Palestine was a situation requiring an effective independent investigation.

Hamas blamed Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for the death. However, the Israeli military said most of the victims were caused by pressure and people were hit by supply vehicles.