At least 46 people died from Israeli fire while waiting for aid in central and southern Gaza, according to rescuers. UN agencies condemned the US and Israel-backed food distribution system, labeling it “an abomination” and “a death trap.” Such deadly incidents have become nearly daily occurrences, yet they attract little attention outside Gaza since Israel’s recent attack on Iran.
The UN reports over 410 Palestinians have died from Israeli gunfire or shelling since the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) began operations in late May. Umm Raed al-Nuaizi, a widow, questioned, “Why are our children’s lives seen as so cheap?” Her son suffered gunshot wounds while collecting food for their family. “Now he is in the intensive care unit,” she lamented.
Chaos in Hospitals
Footage from al-Awda hospital in Nuseirat depicted chaos as young men with gunshot wounds arrived, groaning in pain. Hospital officials reported at least 21 deaths and around 150 injuries from recent incidents as witnesses described thousands gathering near a GHF site in an Israeli military zone when soldiers opened fire.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated they identified a gathering near their troops in the Netzarim corridor. They acknowledged receiving reports of injuries from IDF fire, adding that details are under review. The GHF denied any incidents near their sites that morning.
On Tuesday morning, paramedics reported at least 25 additional deaths near a GHF site in southern Gaza. Witness Hatem Abu Rjileh recounted how Israeli tanks advanced and opened fire on civilians. “Blood got everywhere,” he said, noting many were wounded without rescue.
UN Criticism of Aid Mechanism
As news of the incidents spread, UN human rights office spokesman Thameen al-Kheetan condemned the aid distribution system. He stated, “Israel’s militarized humanitarian assistance mechanism contradicts international standards.” He emphasized that weaponizing food and restricting access to essential services constitutes a war crime.
Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), criticized the new aid mechanism as a “death trap.” He highlighted that it humiliates desperate people and costs more lives than it saves. Despite recent UN criticism, the IDF maintains that it allows the GHF to operate independently.
Israel eased its blockade of Gaza over a month ago, allowing aid distribution to resume. World Central Kitchen reported that aid lorries reached Gaza for the first time in over 12 weeks. However, experts warn that the volume remains inadequate, leaving Gaza on the brink of famine.
