At least 45 Palestinians were killed by Israeli gunfire near food distribution centers in Gaza while awaiting humanitarian aid.
According to the Associated Press, at least 45 Palestinians were killed in Gaza while waiting for the arrival of UN and commercial trucks carrying much-needed humanitarian aid and food. The incident occurred as many gathered in anticipation of the supplies, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health and a local hospital.
Eyewitnesses reported that Israeli forces opened fire on the crowd, although the Israeli military has yet to comment on the incident. The reason behind the shooting remains unclear at this point.
The Associated Press reported that this event does not appear to be linked to the newly launched aid distribution network, supported by Israel and the United States, which has been marked by controversy and violence since its inception last month.
Youssef Nofal, an eyewitness, described the scene as a massacre, with many people lying motionless and bleeding on the ground after Israeli soldiers opened fire. He added that the soldiers continued shooting as they fled the area.
Another eyewitness, Mohammed Abu Kashfa, reported hearing a loud explosion followed by heavy gunfire and tank shelling. He said, “I survived miraculously.” Palestinians have accused Israeli forces of repeatedly shooting at crowds trying to access food distribution points since the centers were opened last month.
