In a tragic escalation of the ongoing Gaza conflict, at least 67 Palestinians have been reported killed by Israeli forces while waiting for humanitarian aid in northern Gaza, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry. The incident occurred as a UN World Food Programme convoy encountered overwhelming crowds of civilians desperate for food assistance. The convoy reportedly came under gunfire shortly after crossing from Israel.

The Gaza health ministry updated the death toll to 73 across the region, with the majority of casualties occurring near the Zikim crossing. The Israeli military has acknowledged firing warning shots at what it described as threatening gatherings but contested the reported number of deaths.

Humanitarian Crisis Intensifies

The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with the UN and local health officials warning of extreme hunger and exhaustion among the population. The UN World Food Programme condemned the violence against civilians seeking aid as "completely unacceptable," highlighting the urgent need for essential goods.

Dr. Hassan al-Shaer, medical director at Shifa hospital in Gaza City, described the facility as "overwhelmed" by the influx of casualties. A local resident, Qasem Abu Khater, recounted the chaos at aid distribution sites, describing the scene as "deadly overcrowding and pushing."

International Reactions and Calls for Peace

Pope Leo XIV has publicly condemned the "barbarity" of the conflict, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a peaceful resolution. He expressed particular anguish over an Israeli strike on Gaza's only Catholic church, which resulted in casualties, including the parish priest.

The Israeli military has issued evacuation orders for Deir al-Balah, a densely populated area in central Gaza, as part of its ongoing military operations. Meanwhile, the international community continues to call for adherence to humanitarian law and the protection of civilians.