Gaza mourns victims of aid point attacks

Palestinians in Gaza City mourned the loss of loved ones killed in recent Israeli attacks, including those struck while seeking humanitarian aid, according to Gaza's health ministry. In recent weeks, Israeli forces have opened fire on Palestinians at aid distribution points, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. Humanitarian groups have criticized the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation system, claiming it forces people to risk their lives in combat zones to access food. Israel maintains that its actions are necessary to control crowds perceived as threats to its troops or to prevent breaches of restricted zones. However, witnesses and human rights organizations report that many shootings appeared unprovoked.

Hamas has accused Israel of using hunger as a weapon against Gaza's civilians, a claim Israel denies, asserting that Hamas diverts aid. The conflict escalated after Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in significant casualties and hostages. In response, Israel's air and ground operations in Gaza have reportedly killed over 56,000 Palestinians and displaced nearly the entire population of more than 2 million, leading to a severe hunger crisis.

Recent incidents include the deaths of at least 44 Palestinians waiting for aid near the Netzarim corridor and Rafah. Among the victims are children and entire families, including Dr. Alaa al-Najjar, who lost nine of her ten children and her husband in an airstrike, and 11-year-old humanitarian influencer Yaqeen Hammad, who was killed in a similar attack.

The humanitarian situation continues to worsen, with limited access to food, water, and medical supplies. Aid distribution points have become targets, further complicating relief efforts. In a separate incident on the same day, violence erupted in the West Bank town of Kafr Malik, resulting in the deaths of three Palestinians during confrontations with Israeli settlers and military forces.