The Israeli military stated troops opened fire to “neutralise the threat” after a man ignored warning shots.
At least 15 Palestinians were shot dead by Israeli forces near an aid distribution centre in central Gaza, according to doctors at Al-Awda and Al-Aqsa hospitals. The victims were approaching the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) when they were fired upon. The Israeli military stated troops opened fire to “neutralise the threat” after a man ignored warning shots.
Previously, Israel had declared roads to GHF centres closed military zones from 6pm to 6am. Despite food deliveries beginning in late May following a partial lifting of Israel’s blockade, aid remains scarce. The UN has criticized the GHF, calling it inadequate and dangerous.
Gaza’s health ministry reports 274 deaths and over 2,000 injuries near aid sites since the GHF began operations. In a separate incident, 12 more Palestinians were killed while waiting for aid near Gaza’s northern coastal road. Hamas accused Israel of using “hunger as a weapon of war.” Ceasefire talks remain stalled.