(MENAFN) A chaotic scene near an aid distribution site in southern Gaza early Wednesday led to the deaths of 21 Palestinians, according to local health officials.

Gaza-based authorities reported that 15 of the victims died from suffocation caused by gas exposure, which triggered a deadly stampede among the gathered crowd.

"For the first time, deaths have been recorded due to suffocation and severe stampede among citizens at aid distribution centers," said the health authorities in an official statement.

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a U.S.-funded organization managed by American security contractors and authorized by the Israeli government, confirmed that one person was fatally stabbed during the unrest.

"Amid a chaotic and dangerous surge, driven by agitators in the crowd," one individual was stabbed, the GHF stated.

In a post on social media, the GHF attributed part of the mayhem to deliberate interference by armed individuals allegedly connected to Hamas.

"We have credible reason to believe that elements within the crowd -- armed and affiliated with Hamas -- deliberately fomented the unrest," the group said.

The GHF, already under fire for disorder and mismanagement, is facing growing scrutiny over its role in overseeing humanitarian aid delivery in the war-torn enclave.

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