In a harrowing incident in Gaza, over 100 Palestinians lost their lives while desperately attempting to access food aid, as the region faces catastrophic famine conditions under Israel's ongoing blockade. Witnesses claim Israeli forces opened fire on crowds gathered near aid trucks, though Israel disputes this account.
The Gaza Health Ministry reported at least 112 fatalities and over 750 injuries during the chaos near Gaza City. Disturbing footage shows bodies strewn across roads and bloodied victims being transported to hospitals already overwhelmed by war casualties.
A Desperate Situation
With Gaza's 2.3 million residents facing severe food shortages, the scramble for aid has become increasingly deadly. The UN warns that a quarter of Gaza's population is now on the brink of famine, with children particularly vulnerable to malnutrition.
One eyewitness described the scene: "People were rushing to get flour to feed their families. Suddenly, there was gunfire everywhere. People fell to the ground, some never to get up again."
Conflicting Accounts
While Palestinian officials accuse Israeli troops of firing on civilians, the Israeli military maintains most deaths resulted from trampling during the chaotic distribution. An Israeli official stated: "The unfortunate incident occurred when thousands of Gazans surrounded aid trucks, leading to a stampede."
However, medical staff at Gaza's al-Shifa hospital reported treating numerous gunshot wounds, contradicting Israel's version of events.
International Response
The tragedy has drawn global condemnation, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. "This horrific event demonstrates the urgent need for unimpeded aid access to Gaza," he stated.
As diplomatic efforts continue, humanitarian organizations warn that without immediate action, such tragedies may become commonplace in Gaza's worsening crisis.
