Israeli forces reportedly killed 21 people and injured around 150 others who were waiting for aid near a distribution center in central Gaza, according to the Gaza civil defense agency.
The casualties occurred amid ongoing violence and tensions in the region, highlighting the grave risks faced by civilians trying to access humanitarian assistance. Civil defense spokesman Mahmud Basal confirmed the figures to AFP.
The incident took place in a heavily affected area caught in the crossfire of the ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Gaza.
The civil defense agency continues to document the severe humanitarian toll of the conflict, reporting on the difficulties residents face in obtaining basic aid.
International organizations have expressed alarm at the increasing violence impacting vulnerable populations and have urged all parties to protect civilians.
While no further details were immediately provided on the circumstances of the attack, aid groups operating in Gaza condemned the violence and called for safe and unhindered access to relief efforts.
The United Nations and other global bodies have called for restraint and the safeguarding of human life in light of the continuing conflict.
