Reports from authorities in Gaza confirmed that 19 Palestinians were killed in an attack by Israeli forces targeting civilians who were waiting for aid near Kuwait Roundabout. In addition, 23 people were injured in the incident. The Media Office of Gaza’s Ministry of Health stated that the attack was a massacre committed by the Israeli occupation.
According to the statement released by Gaza’s media office, the Israeli army and tanks opened fire on civilians who were waiting for bags of flour and aid, even though they posed no danger to the occupation. The victims were taken to Ahli Arab Hospital for treatment, with some being treated outside due to the overwhelming number of casualties and the struggling healthcare system in Gaza.
The situation in Gaza is dire, with half of the population experiencing severe hunger and famine projected to hit the northern part of the territory by May if urgent intervention is not provided. Aid distribution has become increasingly dangerous, with previous incidents resulting in numerous casualties.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed outrage over the Israeli forces restricting aid deliveries to Gaza and attacking people attempting to reach humanitarian convoys. Despite the risks, people in Gaza continue to wait for aid as they are hungry and in desperate need.
The Israeli army denied the reports of firing on the aid convoy, stating that preliminary findings showed no evidence of an aerial strike or Israeli forces firing at the people waiting for aid.