Deadly Shooting at Gaza Aid Distribution Site Claims 25 Lives
At least 25 people were killed and many more injured in Gaza following Israeli fire near a humanitarian aid distribution point. Among the fatalities, 15 individuals lost their lives while waiting in the central Gaza Netzarim corridor, a location where thousands congregate daily hoping to receive critical supplies amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Witness Accounts Reveal Chaos and Desperation
Bassam Abu Shaar, a witness on the scene, described the harrowing ordeal. He said that thousands had gathered overnight beneath the cover of darkness, awaiting aid distribution spearheaded by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which is supported by the US and Israel. Around 1:00 am local time, the crowd came under sudden and intense fire from tanks, aircraft, and drone strikes.
"The gunfire escalated rapidly, and the dense crowd made escape impossible," Shaar recounted. "People were left wounded and dead, barely steps away from the aid point, yet no help could reach them amid the barrage."
Medical Facilities Strained Amid Rising Casualties
Mohammad al-Mughayyir, a civil defence official, confirmed that those injured have been transported to the Al-Awda and Al-Aqsa hospitals located in northern and central Gaza. He highlighted the scale of the injuries with 60 people wounded in addition to the fatalities.
Broader Toll Reflects Harrowing Conditions in Gaza
Beyond the Netzarim corridor, the civil defence agency reported an additional 10 deaths elsewhere in Gaza on the same day—three in Gaza City due to shelling of a residential building, and seven in a strike targeting the Al-Shati refugee camp.
The latest victims underscore the dire conditions fueled by ongoing conflict and stringent restrictions imposed on Gaza. Since early March, Israel has maintained a blockade exacerbating food scarcity and limiting aid access, only partially easing it towards late May.
Humanitarian Aid Distribution Challenges
Despite the partial lifting of the blockade, distribution efforts have been chaotic. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a privately-run entity distributing supplies, faces criticism and reluctance from UN agencies and major aid organizations, which cite concerns over its ties to Israeli military objectives. This has complicated relief operations amid growing famine-like conditions reported by UN agencies.
Israeli Military Response
The Israeli army has acknowledged the reports but stated it is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the casualties. Media restrictions and limited access in Gaza have made independent verification of the incident difficult.
In Summary
- 25 Palestinians killed by Israeli fire near aid distribution sites in Gaza.
- 15 died near the Netzarim corridor while waiting for humanitarian aid.
- 60 wounded among the crowd due to tank, aircraft, and drone attacks.
- Additional strikes claimed 10 lives in Gaza City and Al-Shati refugee camp.
- Humanitarian aid efforts hindered by security concerns and operational challenges.
The escalating violence raises urgent questions about protecting civilians amid desperate humanitarian relief efforts in a conflict zone marked by complex political and military tensions.
