Israeli tanks killed at least 51 Palestinians waiting for food aid in Khan Younis, according to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry. The crowd had gathered near an aid truck when the deadly shelling began. While the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the incident, it claimed it was responding to suspicious activity and is now reviewing the situation.
As Gaza’s hospitals buckle under the pressure, international voices, including G7 leaders, renew calls for a ceasefire.
What Led to the Gaza Aid Site Tragedy?
From Desperation to Disaster
Crowds gathered on Tuesday near a food aid truck stuck in Khan Younis. According to local witnesses, the IDF had already launched an airstrike nearby. Minutes later, two tank shells hit the area where civilians stood waiting.
While the IDF confirmed it opened fire, it claimed the group appeared to pose a threat. It also said its forces were operating nearby and that the situation is under investigation.
IDF Responds After Gaza Shelling Incident
The Israel Defense Forces stated: “The IDF regrets any harm to uninvolved individuals.” Despite that, it also defended the troops’ actions, arguing they aimed to protect themselves while minimizing civilian harm.
Although this isn’t the first time gunfire has erupted near an aid site, the scale of casualties in this incident shocked many, including aid workers on the ground.
Eyewitnesses Describe a Horrific Scene
“We Don’t Want Food — We Want Safety”
Samaher Meqdad, searching frantically for her brothers at Nasser Hospital, cried: “Why did they fire at the young people? Aren’t we human beings?”
Other survivors echoed her horror. One described bodies “scattered on the ground” and likened the attack to a massacre.
Their testimonies highlight the rising fear among civilians simply trying to survive.
Gaza’s Health System Struggles to Cope
Hospitals Overflow as Supplies Run Out
Medical staff at Nasser Hospital treated patients in hallways due to overcrowded emergency rooms. Meanwhile, trauma surgeon Thanos Gargavanis from WHO confirmed that attacks near food sites often result in mass casualties.
As a result, Gaza’s health ministry is calling for immediate international medical support and life-saving supplies.
Ceasefire Demands Grow Louder Worldwide
Pressure Builds on Israeli Government
Only hours before the attack, former U.S. President Donald Trump joined other G7 leaders in urging a ceasefire. Even so, the violence around aid deliveries persists.
Just one day earlier, 34 civilians died while trying to collect food at another aid site. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation noted that while over three million meals have been distributed safely, the recent incidents signal rising danger.
