Gaza, June 19, 2025 – At least 72 Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire across Gaza on Thursday, with 21 deaths reported among civilians waiting for humanitarian aid in central and southern areas, according to Gaza’s civil defence agency.
Civil defence spokesman Mahmoud Bassal reported that the toll, updated from an earlier figure, includes 15 fatalities in the Netzarim area, where civilians had gathered to receive aid. “The Israeli bombardment on the Gaza Strip since dawn today has been relentless,” Bassal said, highlighting the dire situation. The Israeli military, responding to inquiries, stated that troops fired “warning shots” at “suspects” approaching in Netzarim but claimed no knowledge of injuries from the incident.
The attacks come amid ongoing violence near aid distribution points, exacerbating Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which operates these sites, has faced criticism for its system, with reports of chaos and looting as desperate residents seek scarce food supplies. The United Nations has called for independent investigations into repeated shootings near aid hubs, labeling the situation “dehumanizing.”
Gaza’s health ministry reports over 55,700 deaths since Israel’s military campaign began in October 2023, following a Hamas-led attack. With hunger levels critical after months of blockade, civilians face life-threatening risks to access aid, underscoring the urgent need for a ceasefire and improved aid delivery.
