Daijiworld Media Network – Gaza

Gaza, Jun 6: Sixteen Palestinians were killed by Israeli military strikes in Gaza on Friday, according to local health authorities, as fighting intensified in the densely populated enclave. The casualties were reported from Jabalia, Tuffah, and Khan Younis areas.

Witnesses and medics said Israeli planes and tanks escalated bombardments in northern Gaza, particularly around Jabalia and Beit Hanoun, following evacuation orders issued for certain northern blocks by the Israeli military. Spokesperson Avichay Adraee posted on X that Palestinians would have “free movement” to aid distribution sites between 6 am and 6 pm but warned of life-threatening risks outside those hours.

Meanwhile, the US - backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) resumed aid deliveries after temporarily closing its distribution centres due to deadly shootings near their sites. The group, criticised by humanitarian agencies including the United Nations for alleged lack of neutrality, operates independently of traditional relief organisations. Palestinians collecting aid described the process as chaotic and disorganised.

GHF had suspended distributions earlier in the week following multiple shootings near the Rafah site, which led to dozens of Palestinian deaths. The Israeli military claimed its forces fired warning shots in those incidents, stating troops acted against Palestinians advancing towards them.

The renewed violence comes as Israel escalates its offensive against Hamas following the breakdown of a ceasefire in March, months after Hamas’ cross-border attack on October 7, 2023.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains precarious amid ongoing conflict and disruption of aid efforts.