Dozens killed in attack near Gaza aid delivery point, witnesses blame IDF, Israel denies involvement
Gaza Attack Leaves Dozens Killed: IDF Accused of Blame, Government Denies ResponsibilityIn a region marked by constant tension, an attack near Gaza's aid delivery point has resulted in the loss of at least two dozen casualties. The incident occurred as aid workers were delivering supplies to victims of an apparent civilian attack. Witnesses are now pointing fingers at the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), while the Israeli government maintains its denial of involvement.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attack began moments after a group of aid workers arrived at the distribution center near Khan Youyou, one of several key points in Gaza used by civilians fleeing conflicts. The attacker entered the area, targeting the aid workers before moving toward the delivery point where two men were killed upon entering.
"Moments after the attack started, our team members reported hearing a loud explosion and then seeing flashes of what appeared to be flames coming from a vehicle," said Dr. Ahed al-Jazeera, a medical responder at the site. "When we tried to assess the situation, we found two men who had been shot in the chest inside an ambulance. They were pronounced dead on arrival."
Among those present at the center was 12-year-old Sheik Yehya al-Ghamdi, one of Gaza's youngest victims. His mother, Amina al-Ghamdi, described a harrowing scene as she recounted the events to a local radio station: "They attacked us when we were trying to deliver aid. We had come to help people in need, but instead, we became victims."
"The attack came after an hour of tense moments where we tried to reach those who had been hit," al-Ghamdi said. "The attacker entered the compound and attacked us first before moving toward the delivery point. It was a nightmare for everyone involved."
"When I heard about the attack on the aid distribution center, I couldn't believe what I was hearing," said Sarah al-Ajmi, another witness who had been at the site. "We were there to help people who were suffering, but instead, we became part of the victims. The attacker targeted us before heading toward our group."
As officials in Tel Aviv investigate the incident, the IDF has come under scrutiny for their apparent lack of response during what some describe as "unprecedented" attacks on civilian infrastructure. Earlier this week, two rockets had been fired into southern Israel from Gaza, with several people reported killed.
"The Israeli Defense Forces have a responsibility to protect the lives and property of civilians," said Yossi Blum, an Israeli official quoted by local media. "We are reviewing all incidents in accordance with international law."
"If the attack on the aid distribution center was carried out within the jurisdiction of the Israeli Defense Forces, then they should be held accountable for this loss of life," said71-year-old Reuel al-Rashed, a Palestinian security official.
"When I look at the statistics, it's clear that these incidents are not new. The reality is that both sides are involved in an ongoing conflict," al-Rashed added. "We must find a way to stop this violence and protect the lives of all."
As investigations continue, the impact on Gaza and its international community remains a matter of growing concern. The attack has underscored the fragile state of peace efforts, with both parties involved in repeated escalations that have left civilians on both sides suffering the brunt of hostilities.
This ongoing cycle of violence not only claims yet another life but also reinforces the need for political solutions that can bring an end to the conflict and restore stability. For now, the focus remains on finding those responsible and preventing further loss of life in the region.
In a statement released later Monday evening, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied any involvement by his government in the attack, calling it a "minor incident" and stressing that the Israeli Defense Forces had carried out their duty during challenging circumstances. He also stated that the investigation would be conducted to determine who was responsible for the attack.
"It's clear that any such incidents must be thoroughly investigated," Netanyahu said. "We are taking all necessary steps to ensure justice in this case."
As the international community watches, the world hopes for a resolution that can bring peace back to Gaza and protect the lives of its people once again.
------
