Thousands of Palestinians rushed to newly opened aid distribution sites in Gaza on Tuesday, as the first day of a controversial US- and Israel-backed food relief initiative unfolded amid widespread hunger and mounting criticism from humanitarian groups13456.
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a new organization approved by Israel and supported by the US, reported distributing around 8,000 food boxes—equivalent to over 460,000 meals—by late afternoon13456. The food parcels contained staples such as rice, flour, canned beans, pasta, olive oil, biscuits, and sugar, offering some relief after nearly three months of severe blockade and food shortages in the war-torn enclave135.
Crowds and Chaos at Distribution Sites
In southern Gaza’s Rafah area, now under full Israeli military control, long lines formed as people—including women and children—arrived on foot or in donkey carts to collect desperately needed supplies145. Video footage and eyewitness accounts described chaotic scenes, with fences torn down and crowds surging into open fields where aid was stacked45. At one point, the crowds became so large that GHF staff temporarily withdrew to avoid injuries, later resuming distribution once the situation calmed46. Israeli forces reportedly fired warning shots to control the crowds, but no casualties were confirmed346.
Concerns Over Security and Screening
The new aid system has sparked controversy, with many Palestinians expressing concerns about biometric screening and data collection at the distribution sites125. Some, heeding warnings from Hamas and other groups, initially stayed away out of fear that personal information could be used for surveillance or reprisals12. Humanitarian organizations, including the United Nations, have criticized the initiative for limiting distribution to a handful of hubs—mostly in southern Gaza—and for operating under armed security contractors245. Many aid groups have refused to participate, arguing that humanitarian relief should be delivered independently of any party to the conflict246.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
Despite the arrival of some aid, the supplies remain far below what is needed for Gaza’s 2.3 million residents. UN agencies estimate that 500–600 truckloads of aid are required daily, but only a fraction is currently reaching those in need123. The ongoing blockade, combined with continued Israeli military operations, has left much of the population on the brink of famine. According to Gaza health authorities, more than 54,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began in October 2023, with nearly 4,000 deaths reported since a ceasefire collapsed in March16.
Aid Recipients Speak Out
Many of those who braved the crowds described their desperation. “Before the war, my fridge was stocked with meat, chicken, dairy, soft drinks—everything. Now I am begging for a loaf of bread,” said Abu Ahmed, a father of seven, in a message to Reuters1. Others voiced anxiety over the new system but felt they had no choice as hunger worsened12.
International Response
The launch of the GHF aid system comes amid continued debate over how best to deliver humanitarian assistance in Gaza. The United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross have reiterated calls for aid to be distributed based on need and without political or military interference24. Meanwhile, Israeli officials say the new system is designed to prevent aid diversion and ensure food reaches civilians, though critics argue it falls far short of addressing the scale of the crisis256.
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