Gaza City, Gaza Strip – Amid a humanitarian aid delivery on February 29, a tragic event unfolded as Israeli soldiers reportedly opened fire, resulting in over 100 deaths and 700 injuries, according to Gaza’s health ministry. The incident, dubbed the “Flour Massacre” by Palestinians, marked one of the deadliest mass casualty events in Gaza during Israel’s assault on the strip following a Hamas terror attack.
Eyewitness testimonies and videos collected by CNN shed light on the chaotic scene, with survivors recounting Israeli troops firing on crowds as they attempted to reach the food aid convoy. Conflicting reports emerged from Gazan and Israeli officials, with health authorities citing gunshot wounds as the cause of many deaths, while the Israeli military claimed most casualties were due to a “stampede” or being struck by aid trucks.
The Israeli military’s account of the events was challenged by forensic and ballistic experts, as videos and testimonies suggested gunfire began before the convoy crossed the checkpoint and shots were fired at close range among the crowd seeking food aid. Despite denials from the IDF, questions lingered about the accuracy and transparency of their investigation into the incident.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and desperation as people scrambled for aid amidst the chaos and violence. Survivors treated at Gaza’s Al-Shifa hospital shared harrowing accounts of being shot at while attempting to access food supplies. The aftermath of the shooting revealed a grim scene of casualties, with bodies scattered along the coast and injured individuals receiving medical attention.
As humanitarian organizations and UN agencies navigate obstacles to provide aid in Gaza, concerns about the Israeli military’s role in facilitating safe aid distribution have come to the forefront. Reports of repeated attacks on civilians waiting for supplies raise alarms about the ability to ensure the safe delivery of essential assistance in the region.
The devastating events of February 29 have sparked international scrutiny and calls for accountability, as questions persist about the circumstances surrounding the “Flour Massacre” and the broader implications for humanitarian efforts in Gaza. Despite the challenges and risks faced by aid organizations, the determination to alleviate suffering and provide essential aid to those in need remains unwavering.