The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), supported by the US, accused Hamas of attacking its bus in southern Gaza. The bus was carrying over 20 Palestinian staff members to a food distribution center near Khan Younis.
The incident occurred around 10 p.m. on Wednesday. GHF stated, "a bus carrying more than two dozen members of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation team… were brutally attacked by Hamas."
As a result, the group reported five deaths and several injuries. Some aid workers might have been taken hostage, according to the group’s statement. All those on board were Palestinian nationals. GHF told AFP that their team had been distributing aid in areas where attacks on food lines have become frequent. GHF condemned the assault, saying, "These were aid workers. Humanitarians. Fathers, brothers, sons and friends, who were risking their lives every day to help others."
Israeli Forces Kill 60 Palestinians at Aid Center
On the same day, Israeli troops killed at least 60 Palestinians near a GHF-run distribution center. The victims had gathered there in search of food. This incident further escalated the crisis. Human rights advocates have raised concerns about the safety of civilians during aid operations.
Legal Threats Against GHF
Meanwhile, a New York-based law firm warned GHF about potential legal issues. The firm claimed the group could be held liable for “complicity in Israel’s war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide against Palestinians.” This adds pressure on GHF, which continues to operate amid rising regional violence.
Gaza Death Toll Crosses 55,000
According to the Gaza Health Ministry, more than 55,000 Palestinians have died in the ongoing conflict over the past 20 months. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with civilian casualties rising daily.
Israel Recovers Two Hostage Bodies
Later, Israeli forces recovered two hostage bodies during an operation in Khan Younis. The military and Shin Bet carried out the joint mission. One of the hostages was Yair Yaakov, a 59-year-old from Kibbutz Nir Oz. He was abducted and killed during the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel. Israel confirmed that it recovered Yaakov’s body and that of another hostage, whose name has not been released.