Palestinians Killed as Israeli Military Opens Fire at Aid Distribution Point
In a tragic incident in southern Gaza on Tuesday, Israeli military fire resulted in the deaths of at least 15 Palestinians, with some sources, including the Palestinian news agency Wafa, reporting a higher toll of 24 fatalities. The casualties occurred near the Al-Alam roundabout in the Al-Mawasi area, as civilians gathered to receive aid amidst the ongoing humanitarian crises exacerbated by months of Israeli bombardment.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that Israeli artillery and aircraft targeted displaced individuals as they awaited assistance, resulting in around 200 injuries. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a statement asserting that their troops fired on "individual suspects" approaching their positions, claiming that civilians had deviated from designated paths towards the aid distribution sites. They expressed awareness of the reported casualties and confirmed an investigation into the incident is underway.
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, tasked with facilitating aid distribution, faces increased scrutiny after the resignation of its head, Jake Wood, who cited challenges in adhering to humanitarian principles amid the conflict. Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner-general of UNRWA, has criticized the Israeli authorities’ humanitarian operations, labeling the aid distribution system a "death trap" for those seeking assistance.
In a parallel development, the IDF reported that three Israeli soldiers were killed during combat operations in northern Gaza, bringing the total to approximately 860 Israeli military personnel lost since the onset of the conflict, which intensified following the surprise Hamas attack on October 7.
The deteriorating situation continues to raise concerns over the safety of civilians in Gaza, trapped in a hostile environment, while the need for effective humanitarian aid grows increasingly urgent.
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