Israeli forces opened fire on Thursday near a convoy of trucks carrying much-needed aid in Gaza City, resulting in a chaotic and tragic scene and more than 100 dead, according to Gaza health officials and an Israeli military source speaking anonymously.
The exact sequence of events remains unclear, with conflicting reports from both sides. The Gazan health ministry reported over 100 fatalities and more than 700 injuries, calling it a “massacre.” In contrast, the Israeli official admitted to troops firing but suggested that most casualties occurred during a stampede away from the scene. A Gazan doctor described a distressing scene of casualties, including those with gunshot wounds, strewn across the streets following the incident near the aid trucks early Thursday morning in Gaza City.
Dr. Yehia Al Masri, who witnessed the aftermath, recounted a harrowing sight of bodies and blood-soaked flour sacks. Palestinian authorities, Arab leaders, and international aid organizations swiftly condemned the incident, which occurred as civilians gathered in northern Gaza to collect food aid.
The Palestinian Authority, based in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, condemned the deaths as a “heinous act” by Israeli forces and urged intervention from the international community, particularly the United States.
President Biden expressed concern over the incident, suggesting it could jeopardize efforts to broker a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. When asked about the potential impact on negotiations, he acknowledged its complicating effect.
Meanwhile, the death toll in Gaza surpassed 30,000 since the conflict began on October 7, marking a grim milestone. Experts caution that this figure likely underestimates the true extent of casualties due to challenges in accurate reporting amid ongoing hostilities, communication disruptions, strained medical infrastructure, and individuals still trapped under debris.
President Biden, previously optimistic about reaching a cease-fire agreement by the following Monday, now casts doubt on the timeline but remains hopeful for progress in resolving the conflict.
