Israeli Attacks Kill 37 Palestinians in Gaza, Including 19 at Aid Distribution Site
At least 37 Palestinians were killed and more than 200 others injured across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, as Israeli forces intensified their attacks in various areas of the enclave. Among the fatalities were 19 civilians shot near an Israeli-backed aid distribution point, raising further alarm over the safety of humanitarian access in war-torn Gaza.
According to local medics, Israeli forces opened fire on a crowd of Palestinians gathered for humanitarian assistance near the Netzarim Corridor, just south of Gaza City. Eyewitnesses told Anadolu Agency that Israeli quadcopter drones also targeted the civilians with live fire, resulting in mass casualties.
Twelve more people were killed in separate Israeli airstrikes on Jabalia, located in northern Gaza, while additional bombardments in Khan Younis, Deir al-Balah, and central Gaza led to at least six more deaths, including an entire family sheltering in a tent for displaced persons.
Smoke bombs were also dropped by Israeli drones over the eastern parts of Gaza City earlier in the day, Wafa News Agency reported, further contributing to the panic and displacement of residents.
Mounting Humanitarian Toll
These attacks come amid growing international concern over the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, the total death toll since the war began in October 2023 has now climbed to nearly 54,900, with the majority of victims being women and children.
Aid agencies have repeatedly warned that over 2 million Gazans are at acute risk of famine, disease, and mass displacement due to the prolonged blockade and relentless military operations.
Legal and International Repercussions
The International Criminal Court (ICC) in November issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, citing allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the ongoing conflict.
In a parallel legal challenge, Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), with hearings underway to determine accountability for alleged systematic targeting of Palestinian civilians.
Despite international pressure, Israel has continued its military operations in Gaza, with no clear path to ceasefire or long-term resolution in sight.
