In a tragic escalation of violence, at least 18 Palestinians lost their lives following an Israeli drone strike aimed at a Hamas police unit in Deir al-Balah, amid accusations of price gouging and looting at a local market. Eyewitness reports indicate that the aerial attack targeted Hamas officers, who were confronting vendors selling goods allegedly taken from aid trucks.
The Hamas-controlled Ministry of Interior condemned the strike, labeling it another “crime against a police unit meant to uphold public order.” Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with clashes erupting between police and vendors, some of whom brandished weapons. In response to the growing tensions, Israeli drones launched two missiles.
Dr. from Al-Aqsa Hospital confirmed that 18 bodies were received at the facility, but it remains unclear how many were police officers. This incident unfolds as residents in Gaza grapple with severe food shortages, as daily shootings have been reported at distribution points backed by the U.S. and Israel, where prices have soared.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of seizing humanitarian aid destined for civilians, intensifying military efforts to tackle this issue. Conversely, Hamas denied the allegations of aid misappropriation, with a newly formed tribal committee asserting that humanitarian efforts are being organized independently.
On a more positive note, the World Health Organization reported the delivery of its first medical aid shipment since early March, laden with vital supplies for hospitals experiencing critical shortages amid ongoing conflicts.
Source: www.bbc.com
