A detailed forensic investigation has alleged that more than 900 bullets were fired at a convoy of clearly marked Palestinian emergency vehicles in Rafah last March, resulting in the deaths of 15 aid workers.
The joint report by Forensic Architecture and audio investigation group Earshot reconstructs the March 23, 2025 incident in Tal as-Sultan, west of Rafah. Those killed included paramedics from the Palestine Red Crescent Society, firefighters from the Palestinian Civil Defence and a staff member of UNRWA.
Audio analysis suggests sustained gunfire
Investigators analysed video footage recovered from a paramedic’s mobile phone. In a clip lasting about five and a half minutes, at least 844 gunshots were recorded. Across multiple recordings, the documented number rose to at least 910 shots.
According to the report, acoustic analysis identified supersonic bullet signatures indicating that the victims were directly in the line of fire. The rate of fire suggested multiple shooters positioned approximately 40 metres away on elevated ground.
The investigation further claims that firing continued for over two hours, with evidence suggesting that soldiers advanced towards the vehicles while continuing to shoot.
Allegations of close-range killings
The report states that later audio recordings captured gunfire at very close range, based on ballistic sound patterns. A medical examination cited in the report described some injuries as consistent with close-range shootings.
The Israeli military had earlier described the incident as involving “uncoordinated” vehicles and later acknowledged a “professional error”. The forensic findings dispute that account, asserting there was no exchange of fire.
The case has intensified scrutiny amid ongoing proceedings at the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court related to the Gaza conflict.
Israeli authorities have not issued a detailed response to the latest forensic claims.