At least 72 Palestinians were killed in the latest wave of Israeli airstrikes across Gaza, as the humanitarian crisis in the besieged enclave continues to worsen. Many of the casualties over the past 24 hours were reported near aid distribution points, where desperate civilians had gathered in hopes of receiving food.
According to Gaza’s Government Media Office, at least 549 Palestinians have been killed while seeking aid in the last four weeks alone, with over 4,000 others injured near US- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) distribution sites. The figures highlight the growing danger faced by civilians attempting to access basic necessities in a conflict zone.
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Israel has reportedly halted aid deliveries to northern Gaza amid growing concerns that humanitarian supplies are being intercepted by Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz have instructed the military to present a strategy to prevent Hamas from seizing aid. However, Gaza’s Higher Commission for Tribal Affairs maintains that aid convoys in the north are being secured by local clans, not militants.
Footage circulated online this week showing masked men on aid trucks, prompting further scrutiny. While Israel claims the footage proves Hamas interference, tribal leaders insist the armed escorts are part of grassroots efforts to protect the convoys. Hamas has denied involvement, as have other political factions in Gaza.
Meanwhile, the GHF remains the only organization officially authorized to distribute food aid in Gaza under current restrictions, continuing operations even as broader aid deliveries face suspension. The situation underscores the deepening humanitarian crisis as civilians remain trapped between airstrikes and aid bottlenecks.
