At Least 60 Palestinians Killed in Israeli Airstrikes Near Gaza Aid Centers
On Wednesday, Israeli military action resulted in the deaths of at least 60 Palestinians across Gaza, with the majority of casualties occurring near food distribution points managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).
Fatal Strikes Near Aid Distribution Hubs
Medical teams at Shifa and Al-Quds hospitals reported that before dawn, Israeli forces opened fire on individuals gathered near a GHF aid site in the Netzarim Corridor, located in central Gaza. This tragic incident claimed the lives of at least 25 people, with dozens more injured. Israeli troops stated they fired warning shots at a group moving toward their positions within what they described as an active combat zone, deeming the group a threat.
Later in the day, another deadly incident unfolded near a GHF location in Rafah, southern Gaza. Health officials from Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis confirmed that 14 Palestinians were killed by Israeli gunfire as they approached the food distribution center.
Humanitarian Group Responds to Civilian Casualties
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation expressed unawareness of any civilian deaths linked to Wednesday’s aid delivery operations but emphasized ongoing coordination with Israeli authorities to facilitate safe access. The foundation highlighted that the fundamental solution lies in increasing aid volume to ease the urgent demand, stating, “There is not yet enough food to feed everyone in need in Gaza.”
On the same day, GHF delivered a record-setting 2.5 million meals, marking its highest single-day distribution since its inception in late May. To date, the foundation has provided over 16 million meals to vulnerable populations within the enclave.
Wider Impact Amid Escalating Violence
According to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, since GHF began its operations, attempts to access aid have resulted in at least 163 deaths and over 1,000 injuries. International humanitarian bodies, including the United Nations, have condemned these fatalities and declined to collaborate with GHF, citing concerns over its reliance on private contractors and support from the Israeli military, which they argue conflicts with accepted humanitarian principles.
Additional Israeli strikes on Wednesday claimed the lives of 11 other Palestinians in different parts of Gaza, reflecting the ongoing volatility and high toll of the conflict.
Background: A Devastating Conflict
The current hostilities ignited on October 7, 2023, when militants affiliated with Hamas launched an ambitious offensive against southern Israel, resulting in 1,200 Israeli fatalities and the capture of 251 hostages. This prompted a severe Israeli military campaign across Gaza, where, according to local health authorities, nearly 55,000 Palestinians—mostly civilians—have lost their lives.
The fierce fighting has left much of Gaza in ruins, triggering widespread malnutrition among more than two million displaced residents.
Hostage Negotiations Progress Amid Uncertainty
Israeli leadership recently announced “significant progress” in negotiations concerning the release of remaining hostages held in Gaza. Nevertheless, officials tempered expectations by noting it is still premature to predict when or if a final agreement might be reached.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to intensify, illustrating the dire consequences of the prolonged conflict and the urgent need for increased aid and a peaceful resolution.
