Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Gaza
At least 35 people were killed and dozens injured in the Netzarim Corridor of central Gaza while attempting to access food at a distribution point operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Local hospital sources reported the incident to Al Jazeera, highlighting the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region.
Rising Death Toll
The Government Media Office in Gaza has stated that the death toll among aid seekers since the GHF began its food distribution three and a half weeks ago has now exceeded 400, with over 3,200 injured. These figures remain unverified due to restricted access for independent media in the area.
Eyewitness Accounts and Denials
Multiple eyewitnesses have accused Israeli military forces of opening fire on crowds at aid distribution points. Israel has consistently denied these claims, asserting that warning shots were fired or that militants were present in the crowds. The lack of transparency has fueled international outrage.
Oxfam Novib's Dire Warning
Michiel Servaes, director of Oxfam Novib, described the situation as "a form of Russian roulette," where desperate civilians must gamble with their lives to access basic necessities. The limited number of distribution points—only four, with three in southern Gaza—forces Palestinians to relocate from areas without aid, effectively depopulating northern Gaza.
Political Implications
Servaes criticized the GHF's aid distribution plan, warning that it aligns with Israeli military objectives. The EU is set to discuss a report on Israel's military actions in Gaza and the West Bank next week, with Servaes urging concrete measures, such as suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement.