Tragic Sunday in Gaza: Nearly 100 Lives Lost While Seeking Aid, Report Palestinian Officials

At least 94 Palestinians were killed by Israeli military fire in Gaza on Sunday while trying to reach food aid. This tragic day marked one of the deadliest in recent months for those desperately seeking assistance.

The most devastating incident happened in northern Gaza, close to the Zikim border area. Here, at least 81 Palestinians lost their lives while attempting to grab sacks of flour from U.N. World Food Programme trucks. According to the Palestinian Red Crescent, Israeli military forces targeted civilians who were waiting for humanitarian aid.

A field hospital operated by the organization reported receiving 95 injured individuals, some in critical condition. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that its troops fired warning shots to address what they described as an immediate threat posed by thousands of gathered civilians, but they also indicated that their initial findings did not align with the casualty reports.

The World Food Programme confirmed that their convoy of 25 trucks entered Gaza amidst overwhelming crowds of hungry civilians. They condemned any violence against civilians seeking aid and reiterated the need to protect those involved in delivering humanitarian assistance.

Sunday was particularly deadly, especially as severe food shortages and widespread hunger plague the region. Notably, the situation has been worsened by ongoing military actions and limitations on aid access.

Among those injured was Hassan Abu Marasah, who expressed his despair: “Hunger makes you desperate. I have no food at home. I went out to feed my kids, and this is what happened to me.”

On the same day, Israel announced new evacuation orders in central Gaza. People in Deir al-Balah were urged to move for their safety, especially those near areas deemed dangerous due to military operations.

Pope Leo XIV also spoke about the violence in Gaza. He mourned the deaths of three people in a church shelter and called for an immediate end to the violence.

This unfolding crisis reflects a complex history of conflict and humanitarian need in the region. The dire circumstances facing civilians highlight a pressing need for solutions that can address both immediate and long-term needs.

For up-to-date information on humanitarian efforts, you can check the official statements from the U.N. World Food Programme and the Palestinian Red Crescent.

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