Deadly Violence Hits Israeli Aid Distribution in Gaza

Another humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza turned deadly. Palestinians say Israeli army gunfire caused the deaths of 27 people near a food distribution point in southern Gaza. The Israeli military said it targeted “suspicious” individuals along the roads leading to the site. Despite the deaths, the U.S. State Department expressed approval of the operation.

The violence during aid distribution has become common in Gaza, which has faced conflict and severe shortages for nearly two years. Since March 2025, Israel has controlled aid delivery through the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. This group uses biometric scans and facial recognition to decide who receives food. Many international aid groups refused to take part, fearing for the safety of people in Gaza.

Leaders of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation have resigned in protest, and the American firm that set up the biometric system also withdrew. Critics say this system turns aid into a way to control Palestinians instead of helping them. The appointment of an evangelical pastor to lead the foundation in early June raised more concerns because of his political views supporting Israeli claims over Jerusalem. Many see this as a sign that Israel is using the humanitarian crisis to strengthen political control.

As the occupying power, Israel must ensure safe delivery of humanitarian aid. However, Israel has blocked many international groups and reporters from entering Gaza, limiting outside help and hiding the situation from the world. The ongoing blockade and limited aid access have left millions in Gaza living under threat from conflict and without basic supplies.

Experts say the only way to stop these repeated tragedies is a lasting ceasefire, which should include releasing Israeli hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. The current war, restarted by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in March 2025, continues to cause suffering.