On May 28, 2025, Israeli forces opened fire on crowds at food distribution points in Gaza, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incidents occurred at two separate locations: a UN World Food Programme warehouse in Deir al-Balah and a newly established aid center in Rafah operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).
At the Deir al-Balah warehouse, thousands of Palestinians, desperate for food after 80 days under siege, stormed the facility. The chaos led to the deaths of four individuals, two crushed in the crowd and two shot. The identity of the shooters remains unclear, though Israeli forces and contractors were present at the scene. In Rafah, Israeli troops fired on crowds attempting to access aid, resulting in at least one death and dozens of injuries. Witnesses reported that the shooting began after people breached security perimeters.
These events highlight the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over 500,000 people face starvation, and nearly 71,000 children are at risk of acute malnutrition. Aid deliveries have been hampered by high food prices, closed UN-run bakeries, and a controversial distribution system led by the GHF, which the UN and NGOs argue is ineffective and politically motivated. UN officials have condemned the use of aid as a political tool and emphasized that existing humanitarian systems are sufficient if allowed to operate.
The international community continues to call for increased access and support to address the escalating humanitarian needs in Gaza.
