Tragedy in Khan Younis: Dozens Killed While Seeking Aid

 

In one of the deadliest incidents since humanitarian aid resumed in Gaza, Israeli tank fire killed at least 59 Palestinians on Tuesday as thousands gathered near Khan Younis hoping to receive food from aid trucks. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and desperation as shells landed on the crowd, many of whom were already suffering from hunger and displacement.

The attack occurred on the main eastern road through Khan Younis, where civilians had assembled near a United Nations World Food Programme distribution site. Medics reported 221 injuries, with at least 20 in critical condition. Victims were transported to hospitals using civilian cars, rickshaws, and donkey carts due to the lack of emergency infrastructure.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged firing in the area and stated that the incident is under review. They expressed regret for harm to uninvolved individuals and emphasized efforts to minimize civilian casualties.

This tragedy adds to a growing toll: over 397 Palestinians have been killed while attempting to access aid since late May, according to Gaza’s health ministry. The United Nations has criticized the current aid distribution system, calling it unsafe and inadequate.

As Gaza continues to grapple with a humanitarian crisis, the international community faces mounting pressure to ensure safe and impartial delivery of aid to civilians caught in the crossfire.