The casualties occurred near an aid distribution site, where thousands had gathered in the hope of receiving food.

Eyewitnesses say the Israeli military fired at least two shells towards a crowd near an aid truck operated by the American Relief Kitchen, close to a warehouse belonging to the World Food Programme . The incident unfolded around 10:30 CAT in the morning.

The main hospital in the area, Nasser Hospital, was overwhelmed by the influx of casualties, struggling to cope with the scale of the injuries.

The Israel Defense Forces confirmed that its troops were operating in the vicinity and said it is currently investigating the reports.

This marks the deadliest single event in a pattern of near-daily shootings near food distribution points, as civilians in Gaza continue to face severe shortages of basic supplies.  

--ChannelAfrica--