At least 31 Palestinians were killed and dozens more injured during a chaotic scene at an aid distribution site in southern Gaza, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. The incident occurred near a center operated by a US-backed private foundation.
The Health Ministry blamed Israeli forces for the deaths, claiming that those killed were shot in the head or chest. More than 200 people were injured, with many in critical condition. Some witnesses also alleged that security personnel at the distribution site opened fire.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) responded to inquiries by saying it was “unaware of injuries caused by IDF fire within the Humanitarian Aid distribution site” and confirmed that no IDF personnel were harmed. The matter, the IDF added, remains 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, stated that “there was no gunfire in the center or in the surrounding area.”
The GHF, backed by Israel and the United States, was established to provide aid amid accusations by Israel that Hamas was diverting aid. Humanitarian organizations have disputed those claims, saying there is no credible evidence.
The United Nations and affiliated aid agencies have criticized the GHF’s aid distribution system, arguing that it does not align with humanitarian principles and increases risk for civilians. Unlike UN agencies, which use registered databases and verify identities, the GHF has reportedly been distributing aid without screening.
The current system has already drawn criticism. Prior to Sunday’s incident, 11 people had been reported dead and dozens injured since the GHF began operations. The foundation had previously stated that no deaths or injuries had occurred since aid deliveries began.
On Sunday, the GHF announced plans to expand operations, including establishing new sites in northern Gaza. It claimed to have delivered more than 4.7 million meals over six days, with 16 truckloads providing over 887,000 meals on Sunday morning.
Despite GHF’s assurances that aid distribution occurred “without incident,” reports from the ground paint a more disturbing picture. Conflicting accounts continue to emerge, with growing concern over the safety of civilians seeking life-saving assistance.
