The United Nations has sounded the alarm over a new US-led food aid scheme in Gaza, warning it may fuel chaos and cost lives.
In recent days, "scores of deaths" have been reported among Gazans rushing to fortified distribution posts run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a group approved by Israel to deliver essentials amid an 11-week blockade.
Since launching operations a week ago, GHF says it has delivered more than 7 million meals from three militarized distribution sites. Yet, residents must navigate barbed wires and cleared zones to reach limited aid points under armed guard.
"The system of funneling people between barbed wires, forcing them to walk through zones declared off-limits, with armed contractors whose accountability remains unknown is a recipe for disaster," said Stephane Dujarric, chief spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
He added, "Civilians are risking – and in several instances losing – their lives just trying to get food."
Guterres has called for an independent investigation into the deadly events, insisting that perpetrators be held accountable. "The basic needs of the population in Gaza are enormous and are not being met," Dujarric stressed, urging Israel to honor its obligations under international humanitarian law and facilitate relief for all civilians.
The UN Security Council is set to vote on a ceasefire resolution demanding an immediate halt to hostilities, unfettered aid access, and the release of hostages held by Hamas and others. Slovenia's UN Ambassador Samuel Zbogar told Reuters: "It is our historical responsibility not to remain silent."
Major aid groups have refused to work with the GHF model, citing concerns over neutrality and safety. The reliance on private US security and logistics firms to secure distribution perimeters has deepened mistrust among humanitarian actors.
GHF says it will pause operations on Wednesday to press Israel for broader civilian protections beyond site perimeters. As famine looms and basic supplies remain scarce, experts warn a swift overhaul of aid strategy is critical to prevent further loss of life in Gaza.
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UN blasts U.S.-run Gaza food aid plan as recipe for disaster
cgtn.com
