At least 31 Palestinians have been confirmed dead and over 200 others injured following gunfire near a humanitarian aid distribution center in southern Gaza, sparking renewed outrage and global concern over civilian safety in the conflict-ridden territory.
According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, the casualties occurred when Israeli forces allegedly opened fire near a center operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a U.S.-backed private aid organization.
The ministry stated that the majority of those killed suffered gunshot wounds to the head and chest, with dozens more critically wounded.
While local witnesses also claimed that security personnel at the site fired shots, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) denied direct involvement.
“The IDF is unaware of any injuries caused by Israeli fire within the humanitarian aid distribution site,” the military stated in a brief response, adding that an internal review of the incident is underway.
The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS), whose paramedics were among the first responders at the scene, reported that chaos erupted as large crowds gathered in anticipation of food distribution.
“Suddenly, gunshots were heard, and panic spread rapidly,” one paramedic recounted.
However, GHF, which has been at the center of a controversial aid distribution initiative supported by Israel and the United States, rejected claims of gunfire within the facility.
“There was no shooting at or near our distribution center,” the foundation said in a statement.
The GHF was launched to supplement aid efforts amid Israeli accusations that Hamas was intercepting UN aid—claims humanitarian groups continue to contest, citing a lack of evidence.
The foundation has drawn criticism from the United Nations and international aid agencies for bypassing standard humanitarian protocols, such as identity verification and recipient screening.
Prior to Sunday’s deadly episode, GHF’s operations had already been under scrutiny. Reports indicate that at least 11 people had died and dozens injured in earlier incidents linked to its distribution efforts—figures GHF had previously denied.
Despite mounting criticism, the foundation announced on Sunday plans to scale up its operations, including the opening of new aid sites in northern Gaza. It claimed to have distributed over 4.7 million meals in just six days, with 16 truckloads delivering nearly 900,000 meals earlier that day.
While GHF insists its efforts have been peaceful and effective, conflicting accounts continue to emerge, raising alarm over the risks civilians face while attempting to access essential aid.