The US-supported Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) did not distribute any aid today as it called upon Israel to enhance civilian safety beyond its aid distribution centers. This comes in the wake of a tragic incident this week where dozens of Palestinians seeking assistance lost their lives.
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In a statement, the GHF urged the Israeli military to “guide foot traffic in a way that minimizes confusion or escalation risks” near military zones. They emphasized the need for clearer instructions for civilians and improved training aimed at safeguarding civilian safety.
According to hospital officials, over 80 individuals were reported killed and hundreds wounded near aid distribution sites in just three days, including at least 27 fatalities yesterday. Witnesses claim that Israeli soldiers opened fire on crowds that gathered before dawn in search of food.
The military, while denying accusations of indiscriminate firing, acknowledged that shots were fired at “suspects” who allegedly ignored warning shots while approaching military lines.
“Our top priority remains ensuring the safety and dignity of civilians receiving aid,” stated a spokesperson for the GHF.
Meanwhile, an Israeli military spokesperson cautioned civilians against approaching areas leading to GHF distribution sites, describing those zones as “combat zones.” The new aid distribution model, which has been implemented for Gaza’s population of over two million from just three locations, was initiated amid Israel’s intensified military campaign.
Critics, including the UN and other humanitarian groups, contend that this model, which relies on private US security and logistics personnel, effectively militarizes humanitarian assistance. The UN Security Council is anticipated to vote on a resolution calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
The Gaza health ministry reported that Israeli airstrikes had resulted in at least 95 Palestinian deaths within the last 24 hours, including women and children housed in a school near Khan Younis that was hit. In contrast, Israel reported the loss of one of its soldiers, amid ongoing military operations against Hamas militants aiming to free remaining hostages in Gaza.
With widespread malnutrition reported and aid trickling in since Israel lifted an 11-week blockade in late May, a UN spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, remarked, “It is unacceptable. Civilians are risking – and in several instances losing – their lives just trying to get food.” He criticized the aid distribution model backed by the US and Israel, labeling it “a recipe for disaster.”
Since its inception a week ago, the GHF claims to have distributed over seven million meals. John Acree, the GHF’s Interim Executive Director, encouraged humanitarian organizations in Gaza, stating, “Work with us, and we will deliver aid to those who depend on it.”
Experts warn that the threat of famine looms over Gaza’s entire population despite ongoing aid efforts. Jordan initiated humanitarian air drops last year, while the US briefly set up a floating aid pier; however, both efforts faced significant challenges.
The UN has consistently cited Israel and the prevailing lawlessness in the enclave as major obstacles to the distribution of aid during the conflict, while Israel alleges that Hamas has been appropriating humanitarian assistance — a claim the group denies.
The ten elected members of the UN Security Council have called for a vote on a draft resolution demanding “an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, respected by all parties.” The draft also includes calls for the release of all hostages held by Hamas and others, along with the immediate lifting of restrictions on aid entry and safe distribution throughout Gaza.
Slovenia’s UN Ambassador, Samuel Zbogar, urged action, stating, “The time to act has already passed. It is our historical responsibility not to remain silent.”
As President Joe Biden’s administration strives to facilitate a ceasefire in Gaza, it remains uncertain whether the US will veto the draft resolution, which has been its precedent with resolutions that do not align with Israel’s interests.
Israel has dismissed calls for any unconditional or permanent ceasefire, asserting that Hamas should not be allowed to maintain its presence in Gaza. A spokesperson for the US mission to the UN remarked, “We cannot preview our actions currently under consideration.”
A resolution necessitates nine votes in favor and no vetoes from the five permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, or France, to pass.
Since October 7, 2023, the conflict in Gaza has escalated intensely after Hamas militants conducted an attack in Israel, killing 1,200 people and abducting approximately 250 hostages. In retaliation, Israeli military operations have reportedly claimed over 54,000 Palestinian lives, a figure that encompasses both combatants and civilians, with health authorities noting that innocent civilians have endured the brunt of the violence.
James Elder, a spokesperson for UNICEF in Gaza, highlighted the deteriorating conditions, stating, “It’s the same—denial of food, enforced starvation, and people being bombed while they seek refuge.” He spoke of the desperation in Gaza: “Everywhere we go, people are tapping on the window for help. I’ve seen teenage boys crying while they ask for assistance.”
Elder criticized the GHF, describing it as a “veneer” that distracts from the harsh reality on the ground. He pointed out that an efficient aid system during ceasefires allowed for 500 to 600 trucks a day, utilizing over 400 distribution points. “Now it’s just a few pallets and two distribution points,” he lamented.
Given that people were unaware of the closure of GHF aid sites, many reportedly walked over 20 kilometers in hopes of receiving assistance. Elder remarked, “It’s like the Hunger Games around aid points,” reflecting the dire conditions and desperation for aid.
Despite UNICEF managing to secure some truck deliveries, Elder stated that it remains “not enough,” falling drastically short of the actual needs. “We have hundreds of trucks on the border,” he confirmed, underscoring the logistical difficulties ahead.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza continues to unfold, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian access and a critical reassessment of current aid strategies.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
