Israeli forces open fire a kilometer away from Gaza aid site, killing 3, health officials say
Gaza Strip, June 3, 2025 — Gaza health officials say Israeli soldiers opened fire near a food aid site, killing three civilians. The shooting occurred about a kilometer from a distribution point in central Gaza, according to doctors and local eyewitnesses.
This incident adds to growing fears about safety near aid convoys. Thousands of civilians have struggled to access basic food and water amid the ongoing conflict.
Gunfire Sparks Panic Near Food Convoy
Witnesses reported that a group of people had gathered near the aid route, hoping to receive food. Suddenly, gunfire erupted. People fled in panic.
“We were waiting when the shooting started,” said Mahmoud, a 29-year-old from Gaza City. “I saw people falling. One man was shot while running.”
Health officials confirmed that the three victims were unarmed. The Israeli military has not issued a statement yet on the shooting or what prompted it.
Humanitarian Access Growing More Dangerous
Aid distribution in Gaza remains extremely risky. Large crowds often surround trucks carrying food, water, and medicine. Fights sometimes break out over supplies. Armed clashes have also occurred nearby.
International aid groups say they have trouble reaching civilians safely. Many agencies warn that Gaza is now facing a full-scale humanitarian catastrophe.
Most people lack electricity, clean water, and consistent food. Hospitals operate beyond capacity, and hundreds of thousands live in tents or damaged buildings.
Israeli Operations Continue Across Gaza
Israeli forces continue their ground and air operations across the Gaza Strip. Military officials say they are targeting Hamas fighters and weapons stores.
Since the war began in October 2023, both sides have suffered heavy losses. More than 35,000 Palestinians have died, according to Gaza health authorities. Israel has also lost civilians and soldiers to rocket attacks and border raids.
Israeli leaders say they support aid entry into Gaza but accuse militants of using aid points as shields. Human rights groups challenge that claim and say civilians are paying the highest price.
International Condemnation Grows
Rights groups called the shooting near the aid site a grave violation. Amnesty International demanded an independent investigation.
“Civilians should never face bullets when seeking food,” said one spokesperson. “Israel must ensure that troops do not endanger aid seekers.”
The United Nations also raised concern. A UN relief official said the security situation puts every aid convoy at risk. “Without safe zones, aid becomes deadly,” the official added.
UN agencies say they need better coordination to distribute aid. But without clear agreements, trucks often move under threat from both military action and lawlessness on the ground.
Civilians Bear the Brunt
In Gaza, daily life has become a struggle for survival. Aid deliveries offer brief hope, but many fear the risks that come with them.
Fatima, a mother of four, described her dilemma. “You send your son to get food, but you’re scared he won’t return. We live in fear every day.”
Some areas have gone days without food drops. In other zones, people wait in lines under the hot sun for hours. When convoys arrive, chaos often follows. In some cases, trucks get looted or overrun.
Calls for Global Intervention
Diplomatic efforts to pause the fighting have failed so far. Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. continue to push for a ceasefire, but progress remains slow.
Humanitarian groups urge stronger global pressure. They ask world leaders to enforce protections for civilians and relief workers.
“The international community must act before more people die trying to eat,” said a senior official at the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Conclusion: Relief Efforts Caught in Crossfire
The deaths of three civilians near a food convoy show how aid routes in Gaza have become frontlines. Even basic survival now comes with deadly risks.
As the war drags on, more civilians are caught between violence and starvation. Without urgent global action, Gaza’s crisis will only deepen.
