Israeli Troops Kill Dozens Near US-Backed Gaza Aid Centers

Israeli forces have killed multiple Palestinians near humanitarian aid distribution centers in southern Gaza, particularly around the Al-Alam roundabout near Rafah, since the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) began operations in late May. On a recent Saturday, at least six to eight Palestinians were shot dead by Israeli troops as thousands gathered to receive aid, with reports indicating Israeli forces fired warning shots before shooting at civilians. The GHF, a U.S.-backed but controversial organization, operates these aid sites amid a partial easing of a more than two-month Israeli blockade, but it has faced widespread criticism for allegedly prioritizing Israeli military objectives over efficient aid delivery. Since the establishment of these aid centers, over 100 Palestinians have been killed and hundreds wounded while attempting to collect food, leading to the temporary closure of some sites. The United Nations and other aid groups have expressed grave concerns about the risk of extreme starvation and famine for Gaza's population, which exceeds two million people. The ongoing violence and blockade have drawn international condemnation amid worsening humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip.