**Tragedy Unfolds: Israeli Fire Kills Dozens of Palestinians near Gaza Aid Sites**
A devastating incident occurred in the Gaza Strip two days ago, where dozens of Palestinians were killed while trying to access food at aid sites run by the Ghaza-based aid organization, GHF. The tragic event has sparked outrage and calls for an investigation from the United Nations human rights chief.
According to reports, hundreds of Palestinians gathered near the aid sites in search of food after Israel partially lifted a three-month-long blockade on Gaza. However, Israeli fire rained down on the crowd, resulting in dozens of deaths and injuries. The UN’s Volker Turk condemned Israel’s actions, stating that their methods and means of warfare inflict “horrifying and unconscionable pain” on Palestinians.
The Ghaza-based aid organization, GHF, had initially opened its distribution sites after Israel’s partial lifting of the blockade. However, due to security concerns, they briefly closed them down. On Sunday, they reopened the sites, only for another deadly incident to occur.
**A Call for Investigation and Accountability**
UN human rights chief Volker Turk has called for an investigation into the attacks on the aid sites, labeling Israel’s actions as “weaponizing food”. The UN agencies have refused to work with GHF due to concerns over safety.
Local officials report that many of those killed and injured were taken to Nasser hospital in nearby Khan Younis. Relatives gathered at the hospital, following Islamic tradition, to bid farewell to their loved ones. One relative, Ahmed Fayad, described the aid distribution as a “trap” and urged everyone to stay away from Al-Alam, which has been the site of several deadly incidents since Israel-backed food distribution began operating in Gaza.
**A Desperate Need for Humanitarian Aid**
The tragedy highlights the desperate need for humanitarian aid in Gaza. The blockade has driven Palestinians to the brink of starvation, and the partial lifting of restrictions has only brought temporary relief.
In a statement, Ahmed Fayad emphasized that no one can access the aid distribution, leading to widespread suffering among the Palestinian population. He urged UN agencies and NGOs to resume their work in distributing aid and providing essential assistance to those in need.
As the situation unfolds, it is clear that something must be done to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The international community must come together to provide support and ensure accountability for the tragic events that have unfolded.
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