Seven Gazans killed, dozens injured in “Israeli” attack while waiting for aid

Seven Palestinians were killed and dozens injured early Sunday after Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) launched artillery strikes on civilians waiting for humanitarian aid in the Al-Twam and Beit Lahia areas, northwest of Gaza City.

Medical sources at Al-Shifa Hospital confirmed receiving multiple casualties, including several in critical condition, following the attacks on gatherings of civilians attempting to collect food aid.

Local sources reported that 'Israeli' forces shelled civilians in the Al-Twam area, while similar strikes hit Beit Lahia, resulting in the deaths and injuries.

Eyewitnesses said the shelling sparked panic among displaced residents already suffering from severe food shortages due to the ongoing blockade on the Gaza Strip.

The Government Media Office in Gaza condemned the attacks, describing them as part of a deliberate policy by the 'Israeli' occupation to target civilians, especially during aid distributions. The statement also accused certain US-backed aid organizations of complicity by establishing so-called “humiliation checkpoints” that put civilian lives at risk.

According to the office, the death toll since the beginning of the war in October 2023 has surpassed 55,000, with over 127,000 people injured.

'Israeli' military has not issued an official statement on Sunday’s incident but continues its operations in northern Gaza, claiming to be targeting “terrorist sites.”

The attacks come amid a broader escalation in regional tensions, particularly between Israeli Occupation and Iran, further worsening the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

International humanitarian organizations have called for an immediate halt to the shelling and for unhindered access to aid, warning of a deepening humanitarian catastrophe as the blockade and strikes continue.