Gaza (TDI): The Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza has reported that at least 54 people were killed in Israeli strikes over the past 24 hours, as Israel continues its violent attacks and violations of human rights in the Gaza strip.Â
Among the casualties, 36 people were reportedly killed and 208 others injured on Tuesday morning near a food distribution center in Gaza. The Health Ministry stated that Israeli forces opened fire on crowds which had gathered to receive aid.
Footage circulated by local sources show people running and shouting as explosions were heard in the distance. Bodies and injured individuals can be seen being carried from the area, with thick smoke rising nearby.
The incident occurred near one of the distribution points operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a group that is allowed by the Israeli military to provide aid in the territory. The Foundation stated that it paused aid deliveries temporarily last week to hold discussions with Israeli authorities about improving safety.
Read More:Â Humanity’s Trial – Gaza: Blockade, Bombs and Betrayal of International Law
The Hamas Government Media Office claimed that Tuesday’s incident brings the total number of people killed near the Israeli-American aid distribution centers to 163, with more than 1,495 injured since such sites began operating.
Humanitarian organizations have previously warned of growing risks to civilians in Gaza, especially in areas where people gather to receive aid under the ongoing blockade and military operations by Israel.Â
To stop any form of food supplies from entering Gaza, Israel seized the humanitarian ship, Madleen, and kidnapped the 12 activists who were on board. Greta Thunberg, who was also on the ship crew, has now returned to Sweden as she accepted deportation alongside 3 others.
The remaining eight people remain in Israel’s custody. People across the world were watching Madleen with the hope that it will manage to break the siege and food will finally reach the starving Palestinians.
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