UN Reports Nearly 800 Killed at Gaza Aid Sites Amid Worsening Hunger Crisis

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels, with nearly 800 Palestinians killed near humanitarian aid sites since late May, many of them shot while waiting for food and medical assistance. The United Nations and aid organizations describe Gaza as a "graveyard of children and starving people," emphasizing that Palestinians face a dire choice between starvation and violence amid Israel's blockade and ongoing military operations. Israeli forces have been accused of indiscriminately firing on crowds at aid distribution points, with reports suggesting military directives to treat civilians as threats, though Israel denies responsibility and attributes violence to Hamas and criminal groups. The blockade and conflict have caused acute malnutrition, especially among children, with over 650,000 children under five at immediate risk, while food prices have surged and health infrastructure is collapsing due to fuel shortages and damage. International agencies, including UNRWA and the World Food Programme, warn that inaction will lead to further chaos and loss of life, calling for urgent humanitarian aid, civilian protection, and a sustainable ceasefire. Meanwhile, ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israel are ongoing but complicated by the violence and political tensions, including strained relations between Israel and the United States.