GAZA - Twenty-five Western foreign ministers have criticized Israel for "drip feeding" aid into Gaza, as the territory’s health ministry reports over 1,000 deaths since late May among those seeking humanitarian assistance.
Most casualties, according to the UN, occurred during movements to aid distribution sites operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Palestinian officials blame the Israeli military for most of these deaths, which the IDF acknowledges but attributes to warnings and firefights intended to manage crowds. Despite efforts to reroute aid access, killings have continued, highlighting concerns over the safety of civilians.
The Western ministers condemned the current aid delivery model, calling it dangerous and inhumane, especially amid escalating suffering in Gaza. The statement, signed by representatives from 25 countries including Australia, France, Japan, and the UK, along with the EU, expressed horror at the deaths of Palestinians seeking basic needs like food and water. They urged Israel to lift restrictions on aid, allowing humanitarian organizations safe access to assist civilians. The Gaza health ministry reported 99 deaths and 650 injuries in the past 24 hours while trying to reach aid.
Since May, over 1,000 people have died, and more than 6,500 wounded were seeking supplies. The total death toll since the conflict began is over 59,000. Israel’s blockade since March 2 has severely limited aid access, with Israel citing security concerns related to Hamas. The ministers condemned Israel’s denial of assistance, emphasizing its obligations under international law and calling for the immediate lifting of restrictions. In response, Israel’s foreign ministry rejected the statement, accusing it of being disconnected from reality and blaming Hamas for the ongoing suffering and violence. (CNN)
