Tragedy in Gaza: 20 Lives Lost in Crowded US-Backed Aid Distribution Center

At least 20 people lost their lives in a tragic incident at an aid distribution center in Khan Younis, Gaza. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which organized the event, reported that the victims were caught in a chaotic crush. Many were trampled, while one was stabbed. The GHF suggested that armed individuals affiliated with Hamas created the chaos, but Hamas officials denied this, claiming the GHF was trying to cover up the true cause.

Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis confirmed the arrival of 21 bodies, stating that some died from suffocation due to tear gas. This marked the first instance where the GHF acknowledged deaths at one of its aid sites.

A disturbing video surfaced on social media, showing a witness at Nasser Hospital with the bodies of several boys and men. He expressed his grief and outrage, pointing out that the victims were simply there for assistance. Eyewitness accounts revealed that many people were pushed against fences while waiting for food aid, leading to a deadly crush.

One survivor, 21-year-old Mahmoud Fojo, described how people were shoved against the gates, leading to panic and injuries. He noted that individuals struggled to stay on their feet, and some ended up being trampled. Others expressed concerns about the actions of the security contractors, who allegedly closed off passageways and used tear gas to control the crowd.

The GHF responded by denying these accusations. They stated that no tear gas or gunfire was used to disperse the crowd and claimed that only limited pepper spray was employed for safety.

Since the GHF began its operations in late May, there have been daily reports of fatalities among Palestinians seeking aid. Witnesses have often cited Israeli forces as responsible for these casualties. Thameen Al-Kheetan, a spokesperson for the UN human rights office, highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He noted that many people rely on just a few aid distribution points, leading to desperation and chaos.

Al-Kheetan called on Israel to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those in need without restrictions. Recent UN reports noted that there have been 674 killings near the GHF’s sites and 201 along aid convoy routes over the past six weeks.

As the conflict continues, the situation remains dire. Many civilians face extreme difficulties, struggling to secure basic necessities. Acknowledgment of the chaos and loss of life at aid sites emphasizes the urgent need for improved safety and accessibility in humanitarian efforts.

For more detailed statistics and insights, the UN has compiled data on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, available here.

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