Key Facts
• June 27, Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported soldiers’ claims of orders to shoot civilians.
• Soldiers testified they were ordered to fire despite no threats from civilians.
• Over 500 civilians killed since late May at Gaza aid distribution sites.
• Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) established by Israel and the U.S. to prevent aid reaching Hamas.
• GHF operates only four distribution centers for over 2 million Gaza residents.
• International criticism highlights forced displacement due to center locations.
• Israeli military denies intentional civilian targeting, calling reports false.
• Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz condemned the allegations as malicious lies.
Summary
Israeli soldiers stationed at Gaza aid distribution centers have alleged they were ordered to shoot unarmed civilians, even in the absence of threats. Since the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation began operations in late May, over 500 civilians have reportedly been killed while seeking aid. The foundation, established by Israel and the U.S., aims to prevent resources from reaching Hamas but faces criticism for inadequate distribution points and contributing to forced displacement. The Israeli military denies the allegations, asserting no intentional targeting of civilians, while Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz labeled the claims as false and harmful to the military’s reputation.
