In recent days, a tragic incident in Gaza has left many dead, highlighting the dangers surrounding aid distribution in the region. Almost all casualties have been linked to the delivery of humanitarian aid, rather than direct Israeli strikes on Hamas targets.
Witnesses reported that Israeli forces opened fire near a junction east of Khan Younis, where thousands of Palestinians had gathered, hoping to receive flour from a World Food Programme site. Eyewitnesses described how Israeli drones fired missiles, followed by shells from a tank positioned nearby. These explosions caused significant casualties among the crowd.
Nasser Hospital, the main medical facility in the area, is overwhelmed with injured people. Many are lying on the floor as medical staff struggle to treat them. A local journalist confirmed that at least 50 people were killed in the incident. The spokesperson for Gaza’s civil defense agency stated that Israeli drones targeted civilians, followed by tank fire, leading to many deaths and injuries.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the incident, stating that a gathering was observed near an aid distribution truck stuck in the area. They mentioned that they were aware of reports regarding injuries caused by their fire and that the incident was under review.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a mass casualty event linked to aid distribution efforts. A trauma surgeon from WHO noted a troubling pattern of injuries occurring around food distribution sites, primarily from gunshot wounds. Medical staff have been warning that Nasser Hospital might not be able to handle the continuous influx of casualties, especially given the lack of medical supplies and evacuation orders from Israeli forces.
In recent weeks, the hospital has seen a daily stream of casualties from incidents near aid distribution points managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which is backed by Israel and the U.S. Witnesses have consistently reported that Israeli troops opened fire during these incidents, although there have also been claims of local armed groups shooting at people.
The IDF has stated that they warn people not to approach these sites and that they fire warning shots when they perceive a threat. However, the details provided by the IDF have been sparse. Access to Gaza for international news organizations is restricted, making it challenging to verify reports.
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distanced itself from the shootings, claiming that they occur away from their operations. Despite this, the desperate situation has led thousands of Palestinians to gather at these sites in search of limited food supplies, exacerbating the risks they face.
The IDF has also instructed Palestinians not to approach aid distribution sites during nighttime hours, yet many feel they have no choice but to do so to secure food. Verified videos show large crowds of people rushing to obtain food parcels, often without any control measures in place. The aid delivery system has become increasingly chaotic, with reports of people being shot as they try to access supplies.
Hamas has condemned the aid centers as "death traps," while looting and violence among desperate populations have further complicated the situation. Critics argue that the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation is facilitating a plan by the Israeli government to displace Palestinians into smaller areas of Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel claims its new distribution system is necessary to prevent Hamas from stealing aid.
The UN human rights chief has called for a full investigation into the shootings, stating that Israel is using food as a weapon. The head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees has expressed concern over the ongoing tragedies in Gaza, noting that attention has shifted away from the crisis.
With no clear plan from Israel, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, or the international community to prevent these incidents, Palestinians continue to risk their lives in search of basic necessities. The situation remains dire, with over 55,297 people reported killed in Gaza since the escalation of violence began in October 2023, following a Hamas-led attack on Israel that resulted in significant casualties.