Israeli Strikes Gaza Again, 35 Killed Near US-Backed Aid Site

Israeli raids in Gaza on Wednesday killed a minimum of 35 Palestinians, the majority around a US-supported relief camp in central Gaza. Local paramedics confirmed that 25 of the dead were civilians heading to food and medical aid near the ex-Netzarim settlement.

Another ten were killed in other raids in Khan Younis. While the global powers attempt to negotiate peace, there is no apparent willingness from Hamas or Israel to compromise. The human cost of the humanitarian crisis is mounting fast, and there is still political stalemate.

Aid Becomes Tragedy

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), funded by the US, was handing out aid along the Netzarim road when the attack occurred. Physicians at Shifa and Al-Quds Hospitals reported most of the wounded were civilians waiting in line for assistance. Dozens were injured. The scene was reported to have consisted of burned remains and blood-soaked tents.

The Israeli army hasn’t made a statement on the recent attacks. But on Tuesday, it defended a similar occurrence along a GHF installation in Rafah. There, 17 were killed. The Israeli army said it opened fire to warn off what it described as “suspects” moving towards soldiers.

More Deaths, No Accountability

Israel’s new strikes occurred only a day after PM Benjamin Netanyahu mentioned “substantial progress” in the negotiations for hostages. Nevertheless, he cautioned it was “too early” to anticipate an agreement. The continued attacks indicate Israel is far from willing to suspend its attack.

Another ten civilians were killed in Khan Younis. Its residents told of an area residential block being hit by the strikes. Air-raid alarms followed by booms broke the night. Survivors talked of digging out loved ones from rubble.

Ceasefire Elusive, Hostilities Escalate

Despite US, Egyptian, and Qatari efforts, talks on a ceasefire remain at a standstill. Neither Israel nor Hamas has agreed to retreat from fundamental demands. Each side accuses the other of collapsed negotiations. Two Hamas officials said they had heard of no new offers.

The conflict started on October 7, 2023, when Hamas slaughtered 1,200 Israelis and abducted 251 hostages. It was Israel’s deadliest day in decades. Israeli forces have since killed close to 55,000 Palestinians, says Gaza’s health ministry. Victims have been predominantly civilians. Gaza’s cities are now in ruins.

As bombs drop even on aid lines, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis escalates. Without a ceasefire, the bloodshed has no end in sight.