Deadly Attack on WFP Convoy in Gaza Highlights Dire Humanitarian Crisis
July 21, 2025
In a tragic turn of events, a humanitarian aid convoy operated by the World Food Programme (WFP) came under heavy fire shortly after entering Gaza through the Zikim border crossing on the morning of July 20. The 25-truck convoy, carrying essential food supplies intended for the famine-stricken population in northern Gaza, was met with chaos and violence as it reached its destination.
Eyewitness accounts and WFP officials confirm that the convoy had safely passed the final checkpoint when it encountered large groups of civilians desperately awaiting food. These individuals, many of whom are on the brink of starvation, were fired upon by Israeli military forces, including tanks and snipers, as the convoy neared. The sudden eruption of gunfire caused severe casualties among the civilians who had gathered in hope, not hostility.
The WFP condemned the attack in a strongly worded statement, describing the situation as “deeply concerning and tragic,” and warning that it reflects the increasingly perilous conditions under which humanitarian operations are being forced to operate in Gaza.
“This terrible incident underscores the risks we face every day in our mission to feed the hungry,” the agency said. “Those killed or injured were simply trying to access the food they need to survive.”
What makes the incident more alarming is that it occurred despite prior assurances from Israeli authorities that humanitarian convoys would be allowed safe and unimpeded access. These assurances included guarantees that no armed forces would be present along agreed aid routes. The WFP emphasized that no armed groups should be near or interacting with humanitarian convoys and reiterated its call for all sides to respect humanitarian principles.
“Violence near food distributions or convoys is unacceptable,” the statement read. “We demand an immediate end to any hostilities directed at aid efforts.”
The attack comes amid an escalating hunger emergency in Gaza. According to the WFP, malnutrition levels have reached catastrophic proportions. Around 90,000 women and children are in urgent need of medical nutrition treatment, and nearly one-third of Gaza’s population goes days without eating. With basic food items like flour costing over $100 per kilogram in local markets, international food aid has become the only lifeline for most families.
The WFP stressed that without safe passage and protection for aid workers, their life-saving operations cannot continue. The organization called for a large-scale, coordinated effort to restore food access and rebuild public trust in aid delivery systems.
In its closing remarks, the WFP reiterated the need for an immediate and sustained ceasefire. The agency demanded the release of all hostages and unrestricted access for humanitarian workers to every corner of Gaza. “The time for action is now,” the statement declared. “We have the food, the expertise, and the teams ready to act. All we need is safe and reliable access.”
The international community is being urged to step in and ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those who need it most — before more lives are lost to hunger and violence.
