Israeli Fire Kills Dozens Near Aid Sites Across Gaza

In Gaza, at least 50 Palestinians were killed near aid distribution centers on Monday amid ongoing violence and a three-month siege that has left the population on the brink of famine. The shootings occurred near sites operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a controversial group backed by Israel and the United States, which replaced the UN-run aid system but has faced criticism and allegations of employing armed contractors. Witnesses and health officials reported multiple incidents of Israeli forces firing on Palestinians waiting for aid, resulting in hundreds of casualties since May, with the most recent attacks occurring in Rafah, Khan Younis, and other areas. Israel's military has acknowledged firing warning shots at individuals they deemed suspicious but blamed militants for provoking violence, while the UN has criticized the limited aid allowed into Gaza and the GHF's role. The conflict, which began after Hamas' attack on Israel in October 2023, has resulted in significant civilian suffering, with over 55,000 Palestinians killed and many more injured, exacerbated by the blockade and military operations. Palestinian armed groups have responded with attacks on Israeli forces, continuing the cycle of violence in the region.