**Palestinian Lives Lost as Israeli Drones Strike Gaza Market**
In a shocking turn of events, at least 18 Palestinians were killed in an Israeli drone strike that targeted a Hamas unit trying to take control of a market in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza. The incident has sparked outrage and condemnation from the international community.
According to eyewitnesses, the Israeli drones fired on Hamas police officers who were confronting vendors accused of price gouging and selling goods looted off aid trucks. The police were dressed in civilian clothes and wearing masks, but their identities were quickly revealed as they clashed with the vendors.
The Hamas Interior Ministry condemned the strike, calling it a “new crime” against a police force tasked with maintaining order in the Strip. The Israeli military, on the other hand, claimed that they had killed “several terrorists” who were members of Hamas’ Internal Security Forces.
This incident highlights the deepening crisis in Gaza, where residents are struggling to access basic necessities like food and healthcare. The US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has been accused of violating humanitarian standards, and reports of near-daily shootings at aid distribution sites have become a norm.
**Israel’s Response: “Action Plan” to Prevent Aid Theft**
In response to the incident, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered his military to come up with an “action plan” within two days to prevent Hamas from stealing civilians’ aid. This comes after video footage showed armed men taking control of aid trucks in northern Gaza.
However, Hamas denies any wrongdoing and has dismissed Israel’s claims as false. The non-Hamas affiliated committee formed during the war also denied any involvement in the securing of assistance, stating that it was carried out solely through tribal efforts.
**Humanitarian Crisis Worsens**
The incident occurred as Gazans continued to struggle with food access, with reports of near-daily shootings at and around aid distribution sites. The World Health Organization announced on Thursday that its first medical shipment to Gaza since March 2 had been delivered, but the need for aid remains dire.
Tedros Adhanom Gebreyesus, WHO chief, said that despite the high-risk conditions, the medical supplies were transported without theft, but emphasized that it was “only one drop in the ocean.” The blood and plasma delivered were meant to be distributed to hospitals facing a critical shortage amid a growing number of injuries.
**Death Toll Rises**
The death toll in Gaza continues to rise, with at least 14 Palestinians killed since midnight on Thursday. Three Palestinians were confirmed dead and several others injured in Israeli gunfire near Wadi-Gaza bridge. Rescue teams removed 14 bodies, including three Palestinians waiting for humanitarian assistance near the Netzarim Corridor.
Five people were also killed in an Israeli airstrike on a school in western Gaza City that was housing displaced families. The strikes also injured others, and the IDF stated that it was investigating these reports but requested specific coordinates.
**Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: A “Dramatic” Situation**
According to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, at least 56,259 Palestinians have died in Gaza since 2018. This devastating humanitarian crisis has sparked international concern, with many calling for a long-term solution to address the needs of the people in Gaza.
The BBC’s eyewitness reported that ambulances rushed to treat the injured in the aftermath of the incident. Video footage shows panicked shoppers screaming and bodies scattered on the ground. The trauma and suffering inflicted on innocent civilians must be addressed, and the international community must come together to provide a lasting solution to this humanitarian crisis.
Read More @ www.bbc.com
