Aid Convoy Attacked in Gaza, Leaving Dozens Dead and Injured
Aid delivery to the hunger-stricken northern Gaza region turned into a scene of chaos and violence once again, as Palestinians were killed and wounded in an attack on Thursday night. The Gaza Health Ministry reported at least 20 people killed and over 150 injured, accusing Israeli forces of targeting civilians waiting for humanitarian aid near the Kuwait traffic circle in Gaza City.
The Israeli military, however, denied the allegations, blaming Palestinian gunmen for the attack and stating that no tank fire, airstrike, or gunfire was directed at the aid convoy. The conflicting accounts of the incident echoed a similar tragedy in late February, where more than 100 people were killed or injured during an aid convoy in Gaza City.
Witnesses described shelling at the scene, with a doctor treating victims at a hospital noting wounds consistent with artillery shells. The Israeli military claimed it facilitated the passage of the convoy but did not elaborate further.
The attack comes amidst growing international pressure on Israel to allow more aid into Gaza, where hundreds of thousands are facing starvation. Aid groups have called for more border crossings to be opened directly into northern Gaza to alleviate food shortages and ease restrictions on aid convoys.
As the situation in Gaza deteriorates, with reports of malnutrition, dehydration, and lack of essential supplies leading to deaths, the need for humanitarian assistance is more urgent than ever. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with calls for a ceasefire and increased aid delivery to prevent further suffering in the region.