Deadly Clashes Near Gaza Food Distribution Sites
On Monday, at least 38 Palestinians lost their lives amid fresh shootings around Israeli- and US-supported food distribution centers in southern Gaza, according to local health officials. This marks the deadliest day in a series of near-daily incidents as thousands attempt to reach the food aid points controlled by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).
Chaos Unfolds Near Rafah and Khan Younis
Witnesses reported that Israeli forces opened fire early Monday morning around 4 a.m. at the Flag Roundabout near Rafah, a known flashpoint site located just hundreds of meters from the GHF food center. While the majority of casualties were reportedly near Rafah, a few fatalities also occurred on routes leading to a newly inaugurated distribution hub on Khan Younis's outskirts.
Efforts to Control Crowds Trigger Violence
The Israeli military, which has not commented immediately on this specific incident, has previously maintained that security personnel fire warning shots at individuals they identify as threats approaching their positions. Yet, Palestinians rushing the centers often stray from designated access routes, which the military insists are safer. The GHF has repeatedly cautioned aid-seekers about the dangers of leaving the protected paths, but many risk it to secure food ahead of others.
Controversy Over Aid Distribution System
The current system, backed by Israel and the US, aims to prevent alleged diversion of humanitarian supplies by Hamas. However, UN agencies and major aid organizations have criticized it heavily, arguing that it fails to satisfy Gaza’s vast food needs and effectively allows aid to become leverage in the ongoing conflict. The organizations reject accusations of widespread aid theft by Hamas.
Worsening Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Since these food distribution sites opened last month, Palestinian health officials report that dozens have been killed and hundreds wounded in the volatile zones surrounding the centers. Experts warn that ongoing military operations combined with strict aid restrictions endanger the lives of Gaza’s population of nearly 2 million people, raising fears of a looming famine crisis.
Key Takeaways
- 38 Palestinians killed in shootings near food distribution points.
- Shootings mainly occurred near Rafah’s Flag Roundabout and Khan Younis outskirts.
- GHF warns against leaving designated routes, but many do to reach aid faster.
- Israel and US endorse monitoring system to prevent aid diversion by Hamas.
- UN and aid groups dispute new system’s effectiveness and accuse Israel of weaponizing aid.
- Gaza faces escalating humanitarian distress amid military actions and aid constraints.
