GAZA: The Palestine Red Crescent said five people were killed and several wounded by Israeli gunfire and a stampede during an aid delivery Saturday in the besieged Gaza Strip, where severe famine is looming, AFP reported.
The incident occurred near Gaza City’s Kuwait roundabout, where thousands of Palestinians had gathered for the arrival of approximately 15 trucks carrying essential supplies, including flour and food items.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic and confusion as the aid distribution turned deadly. AFP video footage captured the chaotic aftermath, with trucks speeding past burning debris and the sound of gunfire echoing in the darkness. Some of the gunfire was reported to be warning shots, but three of the five fatalities were attributed to gunshot wounds, as per the Red Crescent.
Looming Famine in Gaza
Reports indicate that both Gazans overseeing the aid delivery and Israeli troops in the area opened fire, exacerbating the situation. Additionally, some people were injured in a stampede as they attempted to access the much-needed supplies. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain tense.
The tragic event comes against the backdrop of a dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. A UN-backed report issued on March 19 highlighted that half of Gazans are facing “catastrophic” hunger, with famine looming particularly in the northern region of the territory. The report estimated that 1.1 million people, constituting half of Gaza’s population, are currently experiencing dire conditions.
The situation is particularly dire in the north of Gaza, where the United Nations says there are about 300,000 people — and where the report said famine was “imminent… projected to occur anytime between mid-March and May”.
In the face of this crisis, urgent intervention is imperative to prevent further suffering and loss of life.
