36 Palestinians killed by Israel on way to food distribution sites: Gaza authorities
The Gaza Strip, a region already plagued by conflict and humanitarian crisis, witnessed yet another devastating incident on July 19, 2025. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, at least 36 Palestinians were shot dead by Israeli troops while attempting to access food distribution sites in southern Gaza. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation from around the world.
The tragedy occurred when Israeli soldiers opened fire on crowds of Palestinians who were making their way to aid distribution sites, run by the US and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. The foundation was providing food to those in need, a testament to the dire situation faced by the people of Gaza.
The Gaza Health Ministry reported that the majority of the victims were women and children, who were among the most vulnerable members of the population. The ministry also stated that many of the injured were critically hurt and were being treated at local hospitals.
The Israeli military, however, claimed that the firing involved only “warning shots” after a group allegedly approached soldiers despite being warned to stay away. This claim has been disputed by eyewitnesses and human rights organizations, who contend that the use of live ammunition was excessive and unjustified.
The incident has been widely condemned by international organizations and governments. The United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, called the incident “shocking and unacceptable” and urged both sides to exercise restraint and prevent further violence.
Human rights groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have also spoken out against the Israeli military’s use of force. “The Israeli military’s use of live ammunition against unarmed Palestinian civilians is a grave violation of international human rights law,” said Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa.
The Gaza Strip has been under blockade by Israel and Egypt since 2007, which has led to severe humanitarian and economic difficulties for the region’s population. The blockade has also made it difficult for aid organizations to operate in the region, exacerbating the crisis.
The situation in Gaza is particularly dire, with over 70% of the population reliant on international aid to survive. The region is also plagued by high levels of poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity, making it even more critical that aid reaches those in need.
The incident has also raised questions about the role of the US and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation in the region. The foundation, which is funded by the US and Israeli governments, has been accused of using its resources to further Israeli interests in the region.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the need for international action to address the situation. It also highlights the need for accountability and transparency in the use of force by the Israeli military.
As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, it is imperative that the international community comes together to address the root causes of the crisis and to provide humanitarian aid to those in need. The incident also serves as a reminder that the use of force must always be proportionate and necessary, and that the lives of civilians must be protected at all costs.
