Gaza: Israeli Fire Hits Aid Queue, Kills 20, Officials Report

The Gaza Health Ministry reported a tragic incident where Israeli fire struck a group of people gathering for humanitarian aid at a roundabout in Gaza City on Thursday. This attack resulted in at least 20 fatalities.

Ashraf al-Qidra, the spokesperson for the Health Ministry, noted that in addition to the deaths, 150 people suffered injuries. He warned that the death count might increase due to the severe nature of injuries among many of those rushed to Shifa Hospital in the city.

Details regarding the specific weaponry used in the attack were not provided by the ministry. Meanwhile, the Israeli military has stated that it is investigating these reports.

Since the onset of the ground invasion, Israeli troops and tanks have been engaged in Gaza City, fighting militants for nearly two months. The military claims to have substantially weakened Hamas in northern Gaza, although resistance continues in some areas.

The military operation has led to the devastation of entire neighborhoods and widespread destruction in northern Gaza. This has raised concerns about the possibility of displaced Palestinians, who fled south following Israeli directives, returning to their homes.

Additionally, northern Gaza has faced significant challenges in receiving humanitarian aid. This comes despite the fact that tens of thousands of people have remained in the area amidst the ongoing conflict.