Aid distribution in Gaza turned chaotic Tuesday as desperate Palestinians stormed a U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) center in Rafah, overwhelming fences and drawing warning shots from nearby Israeli forces. The Israeli military claimed it quickly regained control, though several people were injured.
Crowds seeking food amid months of Israeli blockade and growing famine risk were met with military fire and helicopter flares. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic, with some leaving without aid as shots rang out and smoke rose near the site.
The GHF, controversially selected by Israel to lead aid efforts despite opposition from the UN and other humanitarian agencies, began operations Monday. Over 8,000 aid boxes—containing basic items like flour, beans, and canned tuna—have been distributed. Armed private contractors oversee the hubs, which are stationed near Israeli military positions in the Morag Corridor.
Palestinians voiced mixed reactions, with many attending despite warnings from Hamas about biometric screenings at the hubs. Others, like Abu Ahmed, avoided the centers, fearing danger and political repercussions.
The UN cited unsafe Israeli-assigned routes for its inability to collect 400 truckloads of aid currently at the border. Late Tuesday, further unrest occurred as civilians looted aid trucks in central Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp.
Swifteradio.com
