Controversial US-Israeli-Backed Group Faces Shutdown of Food Sites in Gaza: What You Need to Know

Food Aid Changes in Gaza: What’s Happening?

Food distribution sites in Gaza, run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), are closing. This comes as part of a ceasefire deal supported by the U.S. and Israel, according to local officials. Witnesses report that several distribution sites are now empty, forcing many to risk their lives to reach these areas. Aid seekers have faced dangerous situations with Israeli troops, leading to casualties.

Palestinians like Hoda Goda describe the abandoned sites in Rafah. People have been seen dismantling structures for materials. As Israeli troops withdraw from certain areas, there are plans to rely more on other aid agencies for distribution.

A GHF spokesperson mentioned there would be some changes and temporary closures during the hostage transfers to Israel but insisted that their long-term plans remain unchanged.

Meanwhile, the United Nations (U.N.) is preparing to increase aid efforts in Gaza following the ceasefire. They have significant supplies ready, including around 170,000 metric tons of food and medicine, waiting for clearance from Israel. U.N. humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher stated that trucks started to deliver aid, including cooking gas, but more is needed.

Fletcher noted, “Much of Gaza is a wasteland. I’m determined we will not fail.” The emphasis is on restoring basic services and bringing essential supplies over the next two months.

While U.S. officials haven’t confirmed that GHF will cease all operations, there are currently no plans for further funding. Discussions about GHF’s future are ongoing. Some officials believe GHF may still play a role in the relief efforts, depending on the situation.

A Controversial History

The GHF started in late May, replacing the U.N. food distribution system after criticism that Hamas was misusing aid. The U.N. opposed this move, fearing it would give Israel too much control over the food supply and threaten Palestinian displacement. They have been actively working to deliver aid through various channels.

Reports indicate that reaching GHF sites has been perilous. Thousands have gathered under heavy military presence, leading to deadly clashes as people scramble for resources. The Gaza Health Ministry has recorded over 2,500 deaths linked to these dangerous conditions.

GHF claims it has safely distributed a substantial amount of food, but acknowledges the risks people face in transit. With so much at stake, the future of aid in Gaza remains uncertain.

For more information on the humanitarian situation, you can check the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

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Matthew Lee,World news