GAZA — At least 31 individuals were killed in an Israeli airstrike on Sunday near an aid distribution center operated by a private U.S.-based organization in Rafah, southern Gaza, according to local health officials.

This incident marks a continuation of ongoing violence that has complicated humanitarian efforts in the enclave following the recent end of a months-long Israeli embargo.

The strike occurred close to a center managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which has recently begun operations in Gaza.

Medical workers from the Palestinian Red Crescent, associated with the International Red Cross, reported recovering remains of 23 individuals and treating another 23 who were injured at the site.

Additionally, 14 other Palestinians sustained injuries near a separate location in central Gaza.

The number of reported fatalities varies, with earlier figures cited by Hamas-affiliated media indicating 30 deaths and subsequent confirmation from local health officials stating that Nasser Hospital has received at least 31 bodies.

In response to the incident, the Israeli military indicated it is investigating claims of injuries in areas designated for aid distribution but clarified that it was not aware of any casualties resulting from Israeli gunfire.

Conversely, GHF reported that its aid operations had proceeded without incident and refuted allegations of fatalities or injuries linked to their Rafah distribution site.

Witnesses, including local residents and medical personnel, recounted that tank fire targeted a crowd of civilians gathering for aid at the Rafah site, while Israeli forces also opened fire on a nearby crane used for surveillance of the area.

The GHF's operations have sparked some controversy regarding its impartiality.

Established recently, the organization is backed by both Israeli and American governments and has facilitated aid deliveries in Gaza.

However, it has faced criticism from various international observers, including U.N. officials, who have expressed concerns that its involvement may exacerbate existing tensions and humanitarian crises.

The executive director of GHF resigned in May, citing issues related to the organization's perceived lack of impartiality and independence.

Details regarding the funding of GHF remain unclear.

Efforts by Arab nations and the United States to negotiate a temporary truce and secure the release of Israeli captives held by Hamas, in exchange for Palestinian detainees in Israel, have encountered challenges, with both parties attributing blame for the latest escalation of violence.