Israeli Gunfire Kills 93 Palestinians Seeking Aid in Gaza, Civil Defence Claims

Gaza’s civil defence department reported that 93 Palestinians lost their lives after Israeli forces opened fire near aid trucks delivering food and supplies. The shooting took place as massive crowds gathered to collect humanitarian assistance across the Gaza Strip.

Eighty civilians were reportedly killed near Gaza City as trucks arrived with food. Nine others died near Rafah, and four more near Khan Yunis. Gaza officials accused Israeli forces of targeting unarmed civilians.

The UN World Food Programme said its 25-truck convoy came under fire shortly after crossing from Israel. Thousands had gathered, driven by starvation and supply shortages, when gunfire erupted. The convoy was forced to retreat.

A spokesperson for Gaza’s civil defence described the scene as chaotic. “Snipers were positioned near the area,” he said, “and tanks fired without warning.” Survivors said the gunfire resembled “hunting.”

Israel’s military denied responsibility for the high death toll, claiming that soldiers only fired warning shots due to an “immediate threat.”

Aid-related deaths have become frequent across Gaza. UN sources state that nearly 800 people seeking aid have died since late May.

Pope Leo XIV condemned the violence, describing it as “barbarity.” He called on global leaders to protect civilians and places of worship, following recent strikes that killed three at Gaza’s Holy Family Church.

Most Gaza residents have been displaced multiple times since October. New evacuation leaflets warned residents of Deir el-Balah to leave immediately.

Talks continue for a possible 60-day ceasefire, with delegations from Israel and Hamas discussing hostage releases. Of the 251 taken on October 7, only 49 remain in Gaza — 27 confirmed dead.

The humanitarian crisis worsens as Gaza’s infrastructure collapses and international agencies struggle to operate safely.