As these incidents mount, it is becoming increasingly apparent that Gaza’s entire aid distribution system—such as it exists—is on the verge of collapse.
United Nations agencies and other humanitarian groups have refused to cooperate with the GHF, arguing that its system violates the core humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence.
They have also warned that Gaza’s 2.1 million residents face catastrophic levels of hunger following an almost three-month-long total blockade imposed by Israel, which was only partially eased on May 19.
While the U.S. and Israel maintain that the GHF mechanism helps prevent aid from being seized by Hamas, the United Nations has said such diversion is not a widespread issue. Hamas, meanwhile, denies any misuse of aid.
The World Food Programme (WFP) has also struggled to deliver assistance, saying it has managed to send only limited supplies since Israel began allowing restricted entry of goods into Gaza three weeks ago.
This limited delivery, they say, is largely due to delays or outright denial of convoy permits amid Israel’s expanded military operations.
The WFP noted that 59 aid trucks carrying 930 tons of flour were dispatched to northern Gaza on Monday night—but the convoy was “halted en route and offloaded by desperate civilians in urgent need of food for their families.”***