37 Palestinians killed near food aid sites in Gaza amid rising civilian toll

37 Palestinians killed near food aid sites in Gaza amid rising civilian toll
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At least 37 Palestinians were killed Monday near two food distribution centres in Gaza, according to local health authorities, in one of the deadliest incidents since a private aid operation backed by Israel and the U.S. began last month. Witnesses and officials say Israeli forces opened fire as crowds gathered near Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) centres in Rafah and central Gaza.

The Israeli military said its troops responded to perceived threats in an active combat zone near Rafah and fired warning shots. It disputed the reported death toll and cited concerns over people approaching soldiers overnight.

Monday’s casualties were the highest since GHF began operations three weeks ago, replacing UN-led aid efforts that Israel has criticized. The UN and major aid groups have rejected the new model, calling it insufficient and unsafe. Over 200 people were treated at the Red Cross field hospital following Monday’s shootings, the highest number in a single incident so far.

Palestinian officials say scores have died and hundreds more have been injured near the food hubs. Since the war began in October 2023, over 55,000 Palestinians have been killed. UN human rights chief Volker Türk warned of “unconscionable suffering” and urged international pressure to end the conflict.