Deadly Shooting at Aid Distribution Point
On Sunday, July 20, Israeli troops fired on crowds of Palestinians gathered near the Zikim crossing in northern Gaza, killing and wounding dozens, according to Gaza’s health ministry and local hospitals.
Thousands of people had assembled at the border after hearing that 25 U.N. World Food Program (WFP) trucks were bringing desperately needed aid into the enclave. The WFP stated that as the convoy approached, it came under fire from Israeli tanks, snipers, and other gunfire despite prior assurances from Israel that humanitarian operations would not be impeded.
Conflicting Accounts
Gaza’s health authorities reported more than 60 dead and over 100 wounded, with hospitals overwhelmed by casualties. The Israeli military acknowledged opening fire but claimed it was to counter an “immediate threat,” without elaborating, and said casualty figures from Gaza did not match their own review.
The shooting was one of several recent deadly incidents involving Palestinians attempting to reach food amid growing hunger during Israel’s nearly two-year campaign against Hamas.
Growing Crisis and Evacuation Orders
The incident occurred a day after another deadly shooting at a separate aid site in southern Gaza. Meanwhile, the Israeli military issued new evacuation orders covering parts of Deir al-Balah and northern Gaza, shrinking the areas where Palestinians can seek refuge. Residents expressed fear and confusion over whether the orders signal an impending ground assault or a tactic in stalled cease-fire negotiations.
Since the conflict began with Hamas’s October 2023 attack on Israel, more than 57,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza health officials, alongside widespread destruction and displacement.
Humanitarian Conditions
Aid distribution in Gaza has become chaotic and dangerous, with repeated instances of Israeli forces firing near crowds of civilians. Hunger and desperation have worsened as many areas have been designated “combat zones,” further limiting access to safe shelter and food.
The fate of roughly 50 remaining hostages held by Hamas continues to complicate Israeli military operations.
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