Israeli Fire Kills 18 Gaza Aid-Seekers Amid Blockade Crisis

Israeli forces have opened fire near aid distribution sites in Gaza, killing at least 18 people amidst widespread starvation in the enclave. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, supported by Israel and the US, operates these sites, but aid deliveries are insufficient and delayed, with many supplies held up awaiting Israeli approval. Among the victims is 15-year-old Abdul Rahman Abu Jazar, who was shot in the eye while seeking food and is unlikely to regain sight. The Palestine Red Crescent Society reported one of its staff killed and others wounded in an Israeli attack on its headquarters in Khan Younis. Despite limited humanitarian pauses and airdrops announced by Israel, aid agencies warn of a looming famine, with the UN calling for 500 to 600 trucks of aid daily to meet the population's needs. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump's West Asia envoy is reportedly working with Israel on a plan to end the Gaza war, though Hamas insists it will not disarm without the establishment of a fully sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.