**Israel’s Airstrike Kills 39 Palestinians in Gaza**
A devastating airstrike by the Israeli military has claimed at least 39 lives, leaving dozens more injured. The victims were seeking food near two aid distribution centers in southern Gaza and Rafah. According to Hamas’ health ministry, the attack took place on Saturday morning.
The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported that a number of bodies were transported to Nasser Hospital, where medical staff are struggling to cope with the influx of patients. This latest incident is just one of many reports of Palestinians being killed while seeking help in Gaza.
**Eyewitness Account Reveals Targeted Attack**
An eyewitness told Reuters that the Israeli gunfire appeared “targeted for killing”. Mohammed Al-Khalidi, a member of a group who were attempting to reach an aid distribution center, described how Israeli tanks moved towards them and began firing. He claimed that the soldiers did not fire warning shots to scare or organize them, but rather to kill.
“This was not an accident,” Al-Khalidi said. “They shot to kill us. If they wanted to organize us, they would have done it, but they intended to kill us.”
**Controversy Surrounds Gaza Humanitarian Foundation**
The Israeli military has claimed that the airstrike was necessary to prevent “suspects” from reaching the aid distribution centers. However, many have raised concerns about the role of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which relies on private security contractors to distribute assistance in areas controlled by the Israeli military.
Critics argue that the GHF system is ineffective and allows Israel to exert control over aid distribution, rather than genuinely helping those in need. The UN has refused to cooperate with the GHF, calling it “unethical” and citing a lack of evidence that Hamas systematically steals aid.
**Humanitarian Crisis Deepens**
The situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with reports emerging of widespread malnutrition and severe exhaustion among residents. According to Hamas’ government media office, 69 children have died of malnutrition so far this year.
A field hospital has reported an unprecedented influx of patients suffering from severe exhaustion and malnutrition, highlighting the desperate need for aid to reach those most affected by the crisis.
**Ceasefire Talks Still Stalled**
US President Donald Trump claimed on Friday that a ceasefire agreement was “very close”. However, Palestinian officials have revealed that talks are still blocked due to Israel’s refusal to accept Hamas’ demands for troop withdrawal.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza shows no signs of abating, with many wondering when the international community will take decisive action to address this growing disaster.
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