Death Toll Rises in Gaza as Aid Sites Turn Into Tragedy Zones

At least 86 Palestinians were killed by Israeli forces on Tuesday, with many shot near Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) aid sites. Medical sources said 56 people died around food distribution points. In Rafah alone, 27 people were killed while waiting for food.

The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed it as one of the deadliest days since GHF took over aid efforts in late May. Since then, more than 400 people have been killed near GHF-run sites, mostly by drones or sniper fire.

Since October 7, 2023, over 56,000 Palestinians have died in Israeli attacks, with more than 131,000 injured.

Eyewitnesses described the scenes as a massacre. “Tanks and drones shot at us even as we fled,” said one survivor. Al Jazeera footage showed victims being rushed to hospitals after Israeli strikes on Salah al-Din Street and Wadi Gaza, where at least 25 died and 140 were wounded.

The UN and human rights groups criticized GHF, calling it dangerous and militarized. UNRWA Chief Philippe Lazzarini said GHF’s system is “a death trap that humiliates and kills the starving.” The UN has refused to work with GHF, citing its ties to Israeli military operations.

Despite criticism, the United States has pledged $30 million to GHF. The aid group operates through private American contractors.

Fifteen human rights groups have called for GHF to be shut down, warning it may be violating international law and contributing to war crimes.

The Israeli military said it was reviewing the incidents but claimed civilians approached soldiers near the Netzarim Corridor.

The UN and other international voices continue to call for a ceasefire, urging leaders to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.