Mass Casualties in Gaza as Israeli Forces Fire on Civilians; Global Outcry for Ceasefire Intensifies
February 29, 2024
Israeli forces are accused of firing on Palestinians in Gaza amid their rush for food, resulting in over 30,000 deaths including more than 100 killed in a recent incident.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin cited over 25,000 women and children dead since Oct. 7, a figure later clarified to represent total war casualties, not just women and children.
The Biden administration has been criticized for its arms support to Israel, providing over 21,000 precision-guided munitions during the conflict.
Israeli military asserts that a 'stampede' led to the casualties, while the Biden administration demands an immediate investigation.
Portuguese Foreign Minister João Gomes Cravinho calls for a ceasefire and safe humanitarian access, echoing the International Court of Justice's provisional measures.
The Israeli army denies targeting a humanitarian convoy but acknowledges the use of live ammunition on a crowd.
The UN Secretary-General has condemned the violence and stressed the need for humanitarian aid in Gaza.
Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire have been jeopardized, with Hamas threatening to abandon negotiations, and the UN Security Council holds emergency consultations.
Summary based on 91 sources
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Sources

The New York Times • Feb 29, 2024
Death Toll in Gaza Passes 30,000: Israel-Hamas War Latest Updates
The New York Times • Feb 29, 2024
Friday Briefing: Many Killed in Gaza as Israelis Opens Fire
The New York Times • Feb 29, 2024
Death Toll in Gaza Passes 30,000
the Guardian • Feb 29, 2024
More than 100 Palestinians killed while waiting for aid in Gaza City – video report