Over 100 injured as Gazan authorities and Israeli military dispute incident’s cause
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, an attack in Gaza City has claimed the lives of at least 20 individuals gathered to receive food aid, with over 100 more reported injured, according to statements from Gazan health officials. The tragedy occurred near the Kuwait Roundabout, a known distribution point for desperately needed humanitarian aid.
The cause of the violence, which took place on Thursday night, remains unclear amidst conflicting reports. Videos circulating on social media depict the chilling aftermath, with motionless bodies strewn across the scene. However, the authenticity of these videos and the details of the incident could not be immediately verified.
The Gazan Ministry of Health labelled the incident a “targeted attack” by Israeli forces, a claim that the Israeli military strongly denies. In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) refuted allegations of their involvement, emphasizing the importance of relying on credible information and asserting the falsehood of reports accusing them of attacking Gazan civilians at an aid distribution site.
This incident exacerbates the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, which has been under siege and bombardment since early October, following an attack by Hamas, the militant group in control of the territory, on southern Israel. The delivery of food aid into Gaza has been hindered by inspection protocol disagreements, increased lawlessness, and allegations of aid misappropriation by Hamas for its fighters.
The aftermath of Thursday’s violence has overwhelmed medical facilities in northern Gaza. The Gazan Ministry of Health reported that Shifa Hospital, the region’s largest medical centre, and other facilities are struggling to cope with the nature and volume of injuries presented.
This event echoes the tragedy of February 29, where a stampede and Israeli gunfire during an aid convoy’s attempted delivery in Gaza City resulted in hundreds of casualties. The recurring incidents highlight the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the urgent need for a resolution to ensure the safe delivery of aid to those in need.
