Israel has attacked 68 humanitarian aid and food distribution centres in the Gaza Strip since the start of the war, according to the Gaza government media office.

“This criminal behaviour, which deliberately targets relief and social welfare facilities, confirms beyond doubt that the Israeli occupation is using food as a weapon of war, in flagrant violation of all international laws, most notably the Geneva Conventions, which prohibit the targeting of humanitarian facilities and civilians under any circumstances,” a statement by the government office read. 

The latest assault targeted a food distribution warehouse in Deir al-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip, killing at least five and injuring many others who had gathered to receive aid. 

The media office noted that since 7 October 2023, 39 food and aid distribution centres were targeted alongside 29 food banks that provide daily meals.

“Continued international silence amounts to effective complicity in this slow-motion genocide of a defenceless, besieged people, dying of starvation and bombardment before the eyes of the world,” the statement warned, urging international action.