Israeli Forces Kill 32 Palestinians Seeking Food in Gaza

URGENT UPDATE: Israeli troops have killed at least 32 Palestinians and injured over 100 while they were seeking food aid in southern Gaza. The incident unfolded early today, July 20, 2023, near aid distribution points managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) in the Khan Younis area.

Witnesses report that the shootings began around 5 AM as large crowds gathered, desperate for food. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene where Israeli soldiers fired warning shots before opening fire on the masses. One witness stated, “The occupation opened fire at us indiscriminately.”

The GHF has been operating since May, claiming to have distributed millions of meals to the beleaguered population. However, the organization is backed by US and Israeli interests, which have sought to shift aid distribution away from traditional UN-led efforts, alleging that supplies are misappropriated by Hamas. The UN has denied these accusations.

As the violence escalated, medical facilities struggled to cope. Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis reported receiving 25 bodies and treating 70 wounded, many suffering severe injuries, particularly to the head and chest. Dr. Mohamed Saker, head of nursing at the hospital, described the situation as “difficult and tragic,” highlighting a dire lack of medical supplies.

The GHF has stated there were no incidents reported at its sites, urging aid seekers to avoid approaching during nighttime hours. However, eyewitnesses have contradicted this claim, stating that troops fired machine guns from tanks and drones, causing a surge in casualties.

Another witness expressed despair, questioning, “Is this food or death? Why? They don’t talk with us, they only shoot us,” while displaying her empty bag intended for aid. The violence continued throughout the day, with an additional 16 fatalities reported in separate incidents involving Israeli airstrikes.

As ceasefire discussions between Israel and Hamas continue in Qatar, international mediators indicate no progress has been made. This latest violence underscores the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the UN has reported that as of July 15, Israeli forces have killed 674 people seeking food or water since the onset of hostilities.

The situation remains fluid, with humanitarian organizations calling for immediate international attention and intervention. Updates will follow as this developing story unfolds.