Gaza City, June 1, 2025 — At least 21 people were killed and dozens more sustained gunshot wounds during a chaotic incident involving humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reported on Sunday.
The ICRC expressed deep concern over the “tragic loss of life” during the aid operation, emphasizing the urgent need for safer conditions for civilians seeking essential supplies amid the ongoing conflict. “Civilians must be protected at all times, especially when accessing humanitarian aid,” said an ICRC spokesperson.
While the exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, eyewitnesses described panic and confusion as large crowds gathered for desperately needed food and medical supplies. Local health authorities confirmed that the injured were transported to nearby hospitals, many with critical wounds.
This latest tragedy underscores the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where months of conflict have left hundreds of thousands without access to food, clean water, or medical care. Aid agencies have repeatedly called for unimpeded access and safe corridors to deliver life-saving assistance to civilians.
The Red Cross has urged all parties involved to respect international humanitarian law and ensure that aid operations can be carried out without putting civilian lives at risk.