KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip - In the latest incident of violence surrounding food distribution in Gaza, six Palestinians were reportedly killed early Monday near an Israeli- and U.S.-supported aid center in the southern city of Rafah. The Gaza Health Ministry reported the casualties as tensions continue to escalate over a new food distribution system [1][2][3].

According to Palestinian witnesses, Israeli forces and allied local gunmen fired toward a crowd heading to the distribution center. The gunmen, allegedly allied with the Israeli military, were seen operating in close proximity to troops and retreated into an Israeli military zone after the crowd threw stones at them [1][2][3].

The Israeli military has not immediately responded to requests for comment on the incident. However, Israel recently acknowledged supporting local armed groups opposed to Hamas [1][2][3].

This event is part of a series of shootings that have occurred since the implementation of a new food distribution system. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that at least 127 people have been killed and hundreds wounded in these incidents [1][2][3].

The new distribution system, supported by Israel and the United States, is reportedly designed to bypass Hamas. However, it has faced rejection from the United Nations and major aid groups [1][2][3]. The conflicting approaches to aid distribution highlight the complex challenges in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

As the situation unfolds, concerns grow about the effectiveness and safety of current aid distribution methods. The international community continues to grapple with finding a solution that ensures aid reaches those in need while addressing security concerns.