At least 31 Palestinians were killed and dozens more injured during a chaotic scene at an aid distribution site in southern Gaza, as reported by the Palestinian Ministry of Health. The incident occurred near a center operated by a US-backed private foundation.
The Health Ministry attributed the deaths to Israeli forces, claiming that the victims were shot in the head or chest. Over 200 people were injured, with many in critical condition. Some witnesses also alleged that security personnel at the distribution site opened fire.
In response to inquiries, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that they were “unaware of injuries caused by IDF fire within the Humanitarian Aid distribution site.” The IDF confirmed that no IDF personnel were harmed and that the matter was under review.
A paramedic from the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS), the only medical team on-site, reported that “crowds of citizens headed to receive food aid” when gunfire erupted. However, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), the organization running the site, denied any gunfire in the center or surrounding area.
The Gaza Humanitarian Fund (GHF), backed by Israel and the United States, was established to provide aid amidst accusations by Israel that Hamas was diverting aid. However, humanitarian organizations have disputed these claims, asserting that there is no credible evidence to support them.
The United Nations and affiliated aid agencies have criticized the GHF’s aid distribution system, arguing that it deviates from humanitarian principles and poses a risk to civilians. Unlike UN agencies, which utilize registered databases and verify identities, the GHF has reportedly been distributing aid without conducting any screening.
The current system has already faced criticism. Prior to Sunday’s incident, 11 people had been reported dead, and dozens had been injured since the GHF began operations. Notably, the foundation had previously claimed that no deaths or injuries had occurred since aid deliveries commenced.
On Sunday, the GHF announced plans to expand its operations, including establishing new sites in northern Gaza. They claimed to have delivered over 4.7 million meals in just six days, with 16 truckloads providing more than 887,000 meals on Sunday morning.
Despite the GHF’s assurances that aid distribution occurred “without incident,” reports from the ground paint a more concerning picture. Conflicting accounts continue to emerge, raising growing concerns about the safety of civilians seeking life-saving assistance.
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