A humanitarian crisis deepened in Gaza on Tuesday as at least one Palestinian was killed and 48 others injured when gunfire erupted at a newly established aid distribution center near Rafah. The facility, operated by the U.S.- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), was overwhelmed by thousands of desperate civilians seeking food amid severe shortages.
Eyewitnesses reported that the crowd breached the center's fencing, prompting Israeli forces to fire warning shots. An Israeli military helicopter was also seen deploying flares. The source of the gunfire remains unclear, with possibilities including Israeli troops, private contractors, or other security personnel.
The GHF, which commenced operations just a day prior, acknowledged a temporary loss of control at the site. In a statement, the foundation said its team "fell back to allow a small number of Palestinians in Gaza to take aid safely and dissipate."
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from international humanitarian organizations. The United Nations described the scenes as "heartbreaking" and reiterated concerns about the GHF's approach, which bypasses established aid distribution networks. Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), stated, "We already have an aid distribution system that is fit for purpose... The humanitarian community in Gaza, including UNRWA, is ready."
The GHF's model has been controversial since its inception. Critics argue that it undermines humanitarian principles and may be used to exert control over the Palestinian population. Jake Wood, the foundation's executive director, resigned on May 25, citing the impossibility of adhering to humanitarian standards under the current operational constraints.
Israel defends the GHF initiative, asserting that it prevents aid from being diverted by Hamas. However, humanitarian groups warn that the new system could exacerbate tensions and lead to further violence. The chaotic scenes on Tuesday underscore the urgent need for a coordinated and principled approach to aid distribution in Gaza.
As the humanitarian situation deteriorates, with reports of widespread hunger and malnutrition, the international community faces mounting pressure to ensure that aid reaches those in need without compromising humanitarian values or exacerbating the conflict.
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