(MENAFN) The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have ignited a contentious debate by asserting that Fadi Al-Wadiya, a medic with Doctors Without Borders (MSF) killed in a recent Gaza airstrike, was actually a "terrorist" affiliated with Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). According to IDF spokesman Avichay Adraee, Al-Wadiya had allegedly served as a long-term operative for PIJ, specializing in electronics and chemistry to aid in the production of rockets aimed at Israeli cities.

In a provocative move, the IDF released a photograph purportedly showing Al-Wadiya in PIJ uniform, challenging the humanitarian image associated with him as a healthcare worker. Adraee described Al-Wadiya as leading a double life, asserting that such cases underscore how terrorist organizations in Gaza exploit international aid organizations as shields.

Doctors Without Borders vehemently denied the IDF's allegations, categorically stating that Al-Wadiya was killed while cycling to the clinic where he provided essential medical care. Caroline Seguin, MSF's operations manager for Palestine, condemned his death as an execution by Israeli forces and criticized the lack of evidence provided to substantiate the IDF's claims of his involvement in militant activities.

The incident has further escalated tensions, particularly in the context of ongoing airstrikes and casualties in Gaza, with MSF demanding an independent investigation to ascertain the truth surrounding Al-Wadiya's role and the circumstances of his death. The charity's assertion that he was targeted while en route to aid victims of conflict underscores the complex dynamics and humanitarian challenges faced in conflict zones like Gaza.

As international scrutiny mounts and calls for transparency grow louder, the conflicting narratives surrounding Al-Wadiya's death highlight the volatile intersection of humanitarian aid, military operations, and allegations of terrorism in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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