Gaza Rescuers Report 31 Killed by Israeli Fire Near Aid Center

On Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at least 31 Palestinians were killed and approximately 200 others injured when Israeli military forces opened fire near a food distribution center in Gaza City. The Gaza Civil Defense reported that Israeli tanks and drones targeted thousands of civilians gathered to receive aid from a U.S.-backed humanitarian facility.

The incident occurred around 5:30 a.m. local time, as people assembled in the early hours in hopes of securing food supplies. Medical facilities, including Al-Shifa and Al-Awda hospitals, received numerous casualties, with Al-Shifa reporting 24 fatalities and 96 injuries, and Al-Awda reporting seven deaths and 112 wounded.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have not issued an immediate response regarding the incident. However, in previous similar occurrences, the IDF has stated that warning shots were fired to deter individuals approaching military zones, asserting that any subsequent fire was directed at perceived threats. These explanations have been met with skepticism by international observers and humanitarian organizations.

Escalating Violence at Aid Distribution Centers

This event marks the latest in a series of deadly incidents at aid distribution sites in Gaza. Since the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a U.S.-backed organization, began operations in late May 2025, over 160 Palestinians have been killed and more than 1,400 injured while attempting to access humanitarian aid. The GHF’s establishment followed an 11-week Israeli blockade that severely restricted the flow of essential supplies into Gaza, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

The United Nations and various humanitarian groups have criticized the GHF’s operations, citing inadequate planning and coordination, which have led to chaotic and dangerous conditions at distribution sites. Reports indicate that the GHF’s approach has replaced previous aid distribution systems managed by established international organizations, leading to concerns about the safety and effectiveness of aid delivery.

The ongoing conflict, which intensified following Hamas-led attacks on Israel in October 2023, has resulted in nearly 55,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread displacement. Efforts to establish a lasting ceasefire have stalled, and the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with many residents facing severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.