Israel Kills 113 Palestinians in Gaza, Including 33 Seeking Aid

Israeli forces killed 113 Palestinians in Gaza over a single 24-hour period, with at least 33 of those deaths occurring as individuals sought humanitarian aid, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The strikes represent part of a broader intensification of military operations around Gaza City and other parts of the besieged enclave, where civilian casualties and the humanitarian crisis continue to mount.

Aid Seekers Targeted Amid Worsening Humanitarian Crisis

The Gaza Health Ministry reported that 33 people were killed and over 141 wounded while attempting to secure relief aid during these attacks. This brings the total number of Palestinians killed while seeking aid since May 27 to over 2,300, with more than 17,000 injured. Accounts from local sources and hospital officials indicate that Israeli strikes have repeatedly hit areas where civilians gather for food, water, or other essentials. In one incident, an Israeli drone strike killed several children waiting for water in al-Mawasi, a zone previously designated as a "safe area." Such incidents have fueled international outrage and deepened concerns about the targeting of non-combatants in the ongoing conflict.

Intensified Military Offensive and Civilian Displacement

The Israeli military has renewed its offensive on Gaza City, which remains densely populated despite months of conflict and repeated calls for evacuation. Humanitarian organizations report that many families are unable or unwilling to leave due to the prohibitive costs, logistical barriers, and fears of permanent displacement. The United Nations and local aid groups warn that the combination of intensified bombardment and restrictions on movement is exacerbating the suffering of civilians, who face both the threat of violence and a growing risk of famine. Hospitals in Gaza, already overwhelmed by casualties and shortages, continue to receive bodies of those killed in strikes and those succumbing to malnutrition.

Mounting Death Toll and International Response

Since the start of the conflict in October 2023, over 63,700 Palestinians have been killed and more than 161,000 injured, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its casualty figures, states that women and children make up about half of the dead. The Israeli government disputes these statistics but has not provided alternative figures. Meanwhile, international legal bodies have moved to address alleged violations: the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for senior Israeli officials, and the International Court of Justice is hearing a genocide case against Israel. Despite mounting pressure, the Israeli military continues its operations, and the humanitarian situation in Gaza grows increasingly dire as border crossings remain closed and famine spreads, particularly in the north of the territory.