UN calls Gaza aid distribution a 'death trap' after dozens killed by Israel

At least 32 Palestinians were killed and more than 200 injured by Israeli forces while waiting for food aid at two distribution sites in Gaza, according to health officials and witnesses.

The aid is distributed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), an Israeli- and U.S.-backed group whose first week of operations has been marked by chaos and deadly violence. Witnesses reported Israeli troops firing on crowds near GHF sites, with some victims as far as 300 meters from the military.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) confirmed 21 people were "declared dead upon arrival" at its field hospital, which was overwhelmed by the influx of wounded, including women and children. The ICRC called it the "highest number of weapon-wounded in a single incident since the establishment of the field hospital over a year ago," far exceeding the 60-bed facility's capacity.

Rescue crews were unable to access the area under Israeli control, forcing residents to transport victims by donkey carts.

The Government Media Office condemned the attacks, describing the GHF distribution sites as "mass death traps, not humanitarian relief points." The UN agency for Palestinian refugees' head, Philippe Lazzarini, said, "Aid distribution has become a death trap."

Before Sunday, 17 people had already been killed trying to reach aid sites, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by civilians seeking humanitarian assistance in Gaza.

The GHF denied claims of casualties at its sites, attributing reports to Hamas propaganda, but multiple witnesses and health officials confirm the deadly incidents.

Key quotes:
"Aid distribution has become a death trap," - Philippe Lazzarini, UN agency for Palestinian refugees
"Mass death traps, not humanitarian relief points." - Government Media Office

Key stats:
- At least 32 Palestinians killed waiting for aid
- Over 200 injured
- 21 declared dead upon arrival at ICRC field hospital
- 60-bed hospital overwhelmed
- 17 killed before Sunday trying to reach aid sites

The deadly attacks and chaotic aid distribution underscore the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid ongoing conflict and restricted access for rescue operations.

At least 32 Palestinians were killed and over 200 injured by Israeli forces while waiting for aid at Gaza distribution sites run by the Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. The UN called the aid distribution a 'death trap,' condemning the deadly attacks amid chaotic operations and restricted rescue access.