Chaos Erupts at Gaza Aid Distribution as Gunfire Injures Dozens

As crowds thronged to an aid distribution site in Gaza, dozens were reported injured from gunfire, prompting renewed scrutiny of the US-backed aid group's practices.

The UN Human Rights Office reported that at least 47 people were injured during a chaotic aid distribution in Gaza on Tuesday, which was conducted by a US-backed group amid escalating conflict. Most injuries were attributed to gunfire, reportedly from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). A senior UN official confirmed that the situation remained under investigation, but it is believed that the crowd surge caused tumult within the venue. The Hamas-run health ministry stated that one individual was killed, and 48 others sustained injuries during the incident in Rafah, a city under strict Israeli military oversight.

Video footage captured chaotic scenes as thousands of people, including men, women, and children, rushed towards the distribution centre. Accounts from witnesses revealed that many were running for safety amid the sound of apparent gunshots. The IDF, however, claimed they were firing warning shots into the air and did not target the crowd directly.

This aid distribution was carried out by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a controversial new group that has drawn criticism for bypassing established humanitarian channels, including the UN. The GHF utilizes US security contractors in its operations, and while the US and Israeli governments argue it is necessary to curb potential aid theft by Hamas, the group has been rejected by established aid organizations such as the UN on ethical grounds.

UN officials have described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as dire, with 2.1 million people facing severe food scarcity following a prolonged Israeli blockade. During the incident at the GHF centre, many individuals were reportedly reluctant to travel southward to obtain aid due to fear of military responses and detentions.

In response to the emergency situation, various humanitarian groups have indicated that they have supplies ready and plans to distribute them in Gaza, emphasizing the need for safe and dignified access to aid. They have criticized the GHF for its approach, suggesting that the current method puts civilians at risk.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in addressing the current aid distribution strategy, suggested that the aim is to minimize Hamas' control over humanitarian aid and ensure that support reaches the Palestinian populace directly. The ongoing conflict has witnessed a massive loss of life, with extensive casualties reported in Gaza since hostilities escalated following Hamas' attack on Israel in October 2023. Israel continues to enforce strict measures within Gaza, claiming that military operations are aimed at ensuring regional security.