The United Nations has condemned what it described as “deliberate choices” that have left Gaza’s population systematically deprived of the basics needed to survive, following a series of deadly incidents involving Palestinians trying to access food aid.
On Wednesday, UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher issued a strongly worded statement after at least 27 people were killed when Israeli troops opened fire near an aid distribution site operated by the US- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) in southern Gaza. The Israeli military has said the incident is under investigation.
“These horrifying scenes of Palestinians being shot, wounded or killed while simply trying to eat are the direct result of systematic deprivation,” said Fletcher, who also called for urgent independent investigations into what he described as more than isolated incidents.
“No-one should have to risk their life to feed their children,” he added.
The GHF, which only began operating last week, announced on Wednesday it was suspending its aid operations. The Israeli army has declared the roads leading to GHF’s distribution points as “combat zones,” further complicating efforts to deliver supplies.
Emergency medics say they have been overwhelmed with trauma cases. Fletcher said dozens of those injured on Tuesday were declared dead upon arrival at hospitals, reinforcing concerns that the humanitarian situation is spiralling further out of control.
Criticism of Israel-Backed Aid Scheme
The UN and other major humanitarian organisations have distanced themselves from the GHF, alleging that the group was created to align with Israeli military goals rather than impartial humanitarian delivery. The UN has argued that the initiative lacks neutrality and coordination with established relief agencies.
Meanwhile, aid access remains severely restricted. While Israel recently eased its total blockade of Gaza, aid entering the territory has been described by the UN as a “trickle” that fails to meet urgent needs. Calls for wider access and fewer limitations have grown increasingly urgent.
“We must be allowed to do our jobs,” said Fletcher. “We have the teams, the plan, the supplies and the experience.”
He urged Israeli authorities to open all crossings into Gaza, lift restrictions on the type and quantity of aid permitted, and allow unhindered movement of aid convoys. He also reiterated UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ call for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held in Gaza.