Gaza: At least 20 killed near distribution site, says Israel-backed aid group
In a statement, it said 19 people were trampled and one was stabbed in a surge "driven by agitators in the crowd".
"We have credible reason to believe that elements within the crowd - armed and affiliated with Hamas - deliberately fomented the unrest," it said.
"For the first time since operations began, GHF personnel identified multiple firearms in the crowd, one of which was confiscated. An American worker was also threatened with a firearm by a member of the crowd during the incident."
It provided no evidence to support the claim.
The Hamas-run Gaza health ministry claimed 21 Palestinians were killed, "including 15 who died of suffocation as a result of tear gas fired at the starving people and the subsequent stampede" at the GHF site.
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The statement is unusual for the GHF, as the controversial group, which has been rejected by the United Nations and other aid groups, rarely acknowledges trouble at its distribution sites.
The GHF began distributing food packages in Gaza at the end of May, after Israel eased its 11-week blockade of aid into the territory.
It has four distribution centres, three of which are in the southern Gaza Strip. The sites, kept off-limits to independent media, are guarded by private security contractors and located in zones where the Israeli military operates.
Analysis: Gazans face unbearable choice of risking their lives for supplies or going hungry
by Lisa Holland, Sky News correspondent in Jerusalem
The United Nations has already condemned the aid centres run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation as "death traps" - and that was before the latest loss of life, seemingly mostly from suffocation.
It's the first and only time we know of people dying in this way, waiting to get food. Although the Gaza health ministry and the GHF dispute exactly what happened.
But how much longer can this Israeli and American-backed way to supply aid continue when people are dying on a near-daily basis?
However it happened, Gaza's overcrowded hospitals are once again overwhelmed.
And there are serious questions to answer about the organisation of a system which is supposed to be providing humanitarian aid to desperately hungry people, but instead is a place where there is so much loss of life.
It leaves people with an unbearable choice between risking their lives to get supplies or going hungry.
Palestinian witnesses say Israeli forces have repeatedly opened fire towards crowds of people going to receive aid.
The Israeli military says it has fired warning shots at people who have behaved in what it says is a suspicious manner. It says its forces operate near the aid sites to stop supplies from falling into the hands of militants.
After the deaths of hundreds of Palestinians trying to reach the aid hubs, the UN has called the GHF's aid model "inherently unsafe" and a violation of humanitarian impartiality standards.
In response, a GHF spokesperson said: "The fact is the most deadly attacks on aid sites have been linked to UN convoys."
The GHF says it has delivered more than 70 million meals to Gazans in five weeks and claims other humanitarian groups - which refuse to work with the GHF - had "nearly all of their aid looted" by Hamas or criminal gangs.
Since the GHF sites began operating, more than 875 people have been killed while receiving aid, both at GHF distribution points or elsewhere, according to the UN human rights office and the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry.
At least 674 of those have been killed in the vicinity of aid distribution sites run by the GHF.
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Reuters
3 hours ago
- Reuters
At least 36 killed by Israeli fire while seeking aid in Gaza, hospital says
GAZA, July 19 (Reuters) - At least 36 people were killed by Israeli fire while they were on their way to an aid distribution site in Gaza at dawn on Saturday, according to the Gaza Health Ministry and Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. The Israeli military said it had fired warning shots at suspects who approached its troops after they did not heed calls to stop, about a kilometre away from an aid distribution site that was not active at the time. Gaza resident Mohammed al-Khalidi said he was in the group approaching the site and heard no warnings before the firing began. "We thought they came out to organise us so we can get aid, suddenly (I) saw the jeeps coming from one side, and the tanks from the other and started shooting at us," he said. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a U.S.-backed group which runs the aid site, said there were no incidents or fatalities there on Saturday and that it has repeatedly warned people not to travel to its distribution points in the dark. "The reported IDF (Israel Defence Forces) activity resulting in fatalities occurred hours before our sites opened and our understanding is most of the casualties occurred several kilometres away from the nearest GHF site," it said. The Israeli military said it was reviewing the incident. GHF uses private U.S. security and logistics companies to get supplies into Gaza, largely bypassing a U.N.-led system that Israel alleges has let Hamas-led militants loot aid shipments intended for civilians. Hamas denies the accusation. The U.N. has called the GHF's model unsafe and a breach of humanitarian impartiality standards, which GHF denies. On Tuesday, the U.N. rights office in Geneva said it had recorded at least 875 killings within the past six weeks in the vicinity of aid sites and food convoys in Gaza - the majority of them close to GHF distribution points. Most of those deaths were caused by gunfire that locals have blamed on the Israeli military. The military has acknowledged that civilians were harmed, saying that Israeli forces had been issued new instructions with "lessons learned". At least 50 more people were killed in other Israeli attacks across Gaza on Saturday, health officials said, including one strike that killed the head of the Hamas-run police force in Nuseirat in central Gaza and 11 of his family members. The Israeli military said that it had struck militants' weapon depots and sniping posts in a few locations in the enclave. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians and taking 251 hostages back to Gaza. The Israeli military campaign against Hamas in Gaza has since killed around 58,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians according to health officials, displaced almost the entire population and plunged the enclave into a humanitarian crisis, leaving much of the territory in ruins. Israel and Hamas are engaged in indirect talks in Doha aimed at reaching a U.S.-proposed 60-day ceasefire and a hostage deal mediated by Egypt and Qatar, though there has been no sign of any imminent breakthrough. At least 20 of the remaining 50 hostages in Gaza are believed to still be alive. Einav Zangauker, whose son Matan was kidnapped from his kibbutz home and is held by Hamas, urged Israel's leaders to make a deal with the militant group. "An entire people wants to bring all 50 hostages home and end the war," Zangauker said in a statement outside Israel's defence headquarters in Tel Aviv. "My Matan is alone in the tunnels," she said, "He has no more time."
Telegraph
5 hours ago
- Telegraph
Five surprising health benefits of cinnamon
Cinnamon is now stealing the spotlight as one of the most powerful ingredients in your cupboard. With its sweet, woody scent and warm, spicy kick, it's travelled through kitchens from Mumbai to Marrakech, laced through everything from sticky buns to slow-cooked curries. Long prized in traditional medicine and central to Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, this age-old spice is now being studied for a surprising range of modern-day health benefits, from blood-sugar control to brain health. These effects stem from cinnamon's powerful natural compounds and how you consume it may influence what you get out of it. 'It's been used in a range of different ways. Some people use it as a tincture, some people use it as a tea. Some people use it as a spice in cooking,' says registered nutritionist Jenna Hope. 'When you're consuming it in a number of different ways, there's going to be different bioactive compounds in the different mechanisms.' Here are the five ways cinnamon could support your health – and how to get the most out of it. 1. It may help regulate blood sugar Cinnamon's best-documented benefit is its potential to support blood sugar control, particularly in people with type 2 diabetes. A 2023 study found that regular cinnamon supplementation was associated with improved fasting blood sugar and longer-term glucose markers, suggesting real promise for this store-cupboard spice. 'Supporting blood sugar regulation in those with type 2 diabetes is the most compelling evidence-based health benefit of cinnamon,' says Dr Megan Rossi, founder of the Gut Health Doctor (@theguthealthdoctor). 'Some research shows that it can help to reduce blood glucose post-meal,' adds Hope. 'But some found it had no effect. I think it comes down to the doses and the methods.' The form matters, too. 'Some studies look at it using cinnamon tea, some cinnamon extract, some cinnamon powder,' says Hope. 'They're also looking at a wide range of doses… the largest I saw was around 8g, which is really quite high.' Its effects are thought to come from compounds such as cinnamaldehyde, procyanidins, catechins and MHCP (methylhydroxychalcone polymer), which may mimic insulin activity in the body. As ever, consistency is key. A teaspoon sprinkled into your morning porridge or whizzed into a smoothie is an easy way to reap the benefits, but don't go overboard. Experts generally advise keeping intake under 6g a day. 2. It could support heart health Several studies suggest cinnamon could be more than just a cosy comfort – it might offer real support for your cardiovascular system. This aromatic spice has been shown to help improve cholesterol and reduce blood pressure, particularly in people with metabolic conditions. One 2021 review found that cinnamon supplementation helped lower LDL ('bad') cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglycerides. A more recent 2024 study also suggests that cinnamon may help reduce blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and easing arterial tension. 'It's been shown to increase HDL, which is high-density lipoprotein – the good cholesterol,' says Hope. She also notes that by improving blood sugar levels over time, cinnamon may offer additional anti-inflammatory benefits when used regularly. 'There do seem to be some potential heart health benefits on blood lipids,' says Dr Rossi. 'But the clinical trials were done in those with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes… we're not able to extrapolate out to a healthy population.' Still, if you're already eating a diet that supports cardiovascular health – think plenty of fibre, healthy fats and plant-based foods – cinnamon may offer a small but useful bonus. Its warming flavour also makes it an easy ingredient to include in everyday meals: try stirring it into a chickpea stew or using it in a spice rub for roasted root vegetables. 3. It's packed with antioxidants Cinnamon doesn't just bring warmth and sweetness – it also delivers a generous hit of antioxidants. These compounds help protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress, a process linked to ageing, inflammation, and chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Dr Rossi highlights its antioxidant potential, noting key bioactives like 'cinnamaldehyde, procyanidins and catechins (polyphenols), and methylhydroxychalcone polymer (MHCP)' among the compounds that underpin cinnamon's health effects. These protective benefits appear most promising when cinnamon is consumed regularly in small amounts, not as a supplement but simply as part of your usual cooking routine. While cinnamon is often reserved for baking, its aromatic profile works just as well in savoury settings. Try stirring it into a lentil soup, using it to season roast squash or carrots, or pairing it with cumin in a homemade curry powder. Its versatility means it can slot easily into a variety of dishes, sweet or savoury – all while quietly working in your favour. 4. It might help curb cravings and support weight control While cinnamon isn't a magic bullet for weight loss, it might play a small supporting role in metabolic health when used alongside a balanced diet and lifestyle. A 2023 controlled trial looked at a supplement containing Cinnamomum cassia (Chinese cinnamon) and Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) in overweight and obese adults. Those taking the supplement while following a mildly calorie-restricted diet saw a 2.66 per cent reduction in body weight over four weeks, compared with a 1.28 per cent loss in the placebo group. It was well-tolerated, with no significant side effects reported. There's also emerging interest in cinnamon's effect on satiety. A 2023 study found it increased levels of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that helps regulate appetite and makes you feel fuller after meals. 'Some research found that [cinnamon] can increase GLP-1… but equally, some found no effect,' says Hope. 'I think it's really important just to highlight that we don't know how significant of an effect that is in terms of weight loss.' So while it's far from a slimming aid, cinnamon does offer something that many flavourings don't: warmth and sweetness without added calories or sugar. Try sprinkling it over roasted vegetables or blending it into smoothies for an aromatic twist. 5. It shows early promise for brain health As well as being linked to improvements in some aspects of physical health, cinnamon might have more to offer the brain than you'd expect, early research suggests. A 2023 study found that cinnamon extract improved memory in rats and appeared to protect brain cells from damage. Another 2022 investigation linked cinnamon's phytochemicals to antidepressant and memory-enhancing effects in mice. 'Although there are some animal and test-tube studies suggesting potential benefit on neuroplasticity, memory and even Parkinson's, there haven't been human clinical trials to confirm or refuse this,' says Dr Rossi. 'More research is needed in this area.' Hope adds: 'Some research suggests that cinnamon – specifically the acid components cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid – have been associated with an improvement in cognitive function. Additionally, the antioxidant capabilities may have protective effects on brain health; however, again, this depends on the dose and the type of cinnamon.' For now, the findings are intriguing but far from conclusive. Still, cinnamon's broader anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may offer gentle support for long-term brain health when used regularly as part of your diet. Which type is best – and how much is too much? Not all cinnamon is created equal. In fact, the type you pick up at the supermarket could make a big difference to its safety and effectiveness. 'There are two main types,' explains Dr Rossi. 'Cassia is more common and has a stronger aroma, but it contains much more coumarin, which can be harmful to the liver in high doses. Ceylon has a milder taste and is considered safer for long-term or high-dose use.' While Cassia is the type most commonly found on supermarket shelves, its higher coumarin content means it should be used more cautiously. Ceylon, sometimes labelled as 'true cinnamon', is typically more expensive and often available in health-food shops or listed by name on packaging, so it's worth checking the label before you buy. The European Food Safety Authority sets a tolerable daily intake of just 0.1mg per kg of body weight. That means even small, frequent amounts of Cassia could tip some people over the recommended limit. Ground cinnamon is also a better option than sticks if you're looking to get the most from it. 'You're consuming more of the bioactive compounds,' says Hope. 'With sticks, it's generally more of an infusion – you're not getting the full compound content.' She adds that while cinnamon is 'generally safe up to around 6g a day', which is roughly two level teaspoons, taking more than 3g long-term could cause issues for some people or interact with certain medications. In particular, it may amplify the effects of antidiabetic drugs like metformin or interfere with how the liver processes other medications. If you're taking regular medication or considering cinnamon supplements, it's best to check with your GP first. Three simple ways to enjoy cinnamon Blend it into your breakfast Stir half a teaspoon into porridge, overnight oats or yogurt for a warming start that doesn't rely on added sugar. 'It's a really good alternative to sugar,' says Hope. 'It provides a little bit of natural sweetness, so you don't need to add so much sugar.' It also pairs well with ground flaxseed or chia for a fibre-rich, blood-sugar-friendly breakfast. Add warmth to savoury dishes Cinnamon's warmth works surprisingly well outside of baking. Try it in stews, tagines or lentil soups, where it complements tomatoes, pulses and root veg. A pinch with cumin and paprika makes a quick, aromatic rub for roasted carrots or chickpeas. Upgrade your smoothies or snacks Blend cinnamon into nut butter or protein shakes for a comforting twist that also helps manage blood-sugar spikes. It also adds flavour and antioxidants to roasted nut and seed mixes –ideal for cooler months or post-gym recovery.
The Guardian
5 hours ago
- The Guardian
UK government faces legal action over not evacuating critically ill children from Gaza
The UK government is facing a legal challenge over its decision not to medically evacuate critically ill children from Gaza in the way they have done for young people caught up in other conflicts. The legal action, being taken against the Foreign Office and Home Office on behalf of three critically ill children in Gaza, argues that UK ministers have failed to take into account the lack of treatment options for children in the territory before denying medical evacuations. It also says the position not to medically evacuate children from Gaza stands in stark contrast to Britain's historical record in such circumstances, which has evacuated children during the conflict in Bosnia and, most recently, Ukraine. 'The UK government has explained its failure to facilitate medical evacuations from Gaza on the basis that it supports treatment options in Gaza and the surrounding region and that there are visas available for privately funded medical treatment in the UK. However, these mechanisms are profoundly inadequate to meet the urgent needs of children in Gaza,' said Carolin Ott from the law firm Leigh Day, who is leading the action. The families of the three children, aged two and five, have said an urgent evacuation is needed for critical medication and treatment they are unable to access in Gaza. To date, the UK has yet to offer itself as a receiving state for medical evacuations from Gaza, and campaigners have been pushing for a separate immigration route. The two-year-old, referred to as Child Y, has an arteriovenous malformation in his cheek which causes daily bleeding and has left him in critical condition. The other children, two siblings referred to as Child S, have been diagnosed with cystinosis nephropathy, a chronic condition also known as leaky kidney. They have already developed kidney failure and may need transplants. One of the siblings is no longer able to move. The action comes as Israel's war on Gaza passed 650 days. Since 7 October, more than 17,000 of the 58,000 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces in the territory were children, according to the health ministry in Gaza. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), it is estimated that as many as 12,500 patients in Gaza require medical evacuation. As of 10 April, 7,229 patients have been evacuated to Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, the EU and the US. Of these patients, 4,984 have been children. However, organisations such as Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), which has evacuated 22 patients, have called on more nations to help, as the limited destinations remain a challenge, said Dr Hani Isleem, MSF project coordinator for medical evacuations from Gaza. 'Some countries are reluctant to take in patients, fearing they might be perceived as facilitating 'forced migration' or as taking on the burden of the patients' extended stay,' he said. A government spokesperson said that since the start of the conflict the UK has provided healthcare to over 500,000 people in the Palestinian territories through supporting field hospitals and medical supplies. In May, the UK announced a £7.5m package of support for medical care in Gaza and the region. 'We have helped several children with complex paediatric conditions access privately funded medical care in the UK, supporting an initiative by Project Pure Hope, the spokesperson said. In May, two children arrived in the UK for medical care with the assistance of Project Pure Hope. It was the first time the UK let in a child from Gaza for medical care, which was privately funded, and is the only existing route for those in need of critical care. According to legal documents, the charity had requested a Gaza-UK pathway at the government's expense and was refused. 'We have been clear the situation in Gaza is intolerable and that there must be an immediate ceasefire. We urge Israel to let vital humanitarian aid in and allow Gazans to receive urgent healthcare, including allowing the sick and wounded to temporarily leave the Gaza Strip to receive treatment,' the government spokesperson said. The government has until 28 July to respond to the pre-action letter.
