Statement from the Embassy of Israel: False Claims Regarding IDF Fire in Gaza

The Embassy of Israel in New Zealand would like to address and clarify recent reports regarding allegations of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) fire toward Gazan civilians near a humanitarian aid distribution site.

These claims are false

An initial IDF inquiry confirms that no fire was directed at civilians in or around the humanitarian aid distribution area. The incident in question occurred approximately one kilometre away from the distribution site and outside of its operating hours. During that separate event, IDF troops responded with warning shots toward individuals approaching their position under suspicious circumstances. There is no connection between this defensive action and the false claims circulating in the media.

Hamas continues to exploit humanitarian aid efforts

The IDF is working in coordination with the American humanitarian organisation GHF and international agencies to facilitate the delivery of aid intended for Gazan civilians — not Hamas.

We wish to remind the public and the media that Hamas is a brutal terrorist organisation that deliberately endangers the lives of Gazan civilians in order to preserve its control over the Gaza Strip. Hamas systematically undermines humanitarian aid operations by seizing supplies, attacking aid convoys, and violently obstructing access to food. It uses disinformation as a strategic weapon — manipulating the media and public opinion to conceal its crimes and shift blame.

Drone footage released by the IDF today shows armed individuals in southern Khan Yunis firing at Gazans trying to collect looted aid. These gunmen, identified as Hamas operatives, are seen obstructing access to food and basic necessities.

You may view the footage here: https://bit.ly/4jNBNZT

We urge all members of the media to treat unverified claims from Hamas-affiliated sources with extreme caution. In past incidents, such disinformation has led to serious misreporting, ultimately harming the prospects for stability and humanitarian relief on the ground.

We remain committed to supporting the safe and effective delivery of aid to Gaza’s civilian population and to countering those who would weaponise suffering for political gain.

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