The United Nations has sharply criticized a new U.S.-run food aid scheme in Gaza, labeling it a “recipe for disaster” as desperate civilians risk their lives to access essential supplies.
Over the past three days, scores of deaths have been reported among Gazans attempting to reach fortified aid distribution sites established by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Approved by Israel and operated by the United States, these sites require residents to navigate dangerous, militarized zones or areas under evacuation orders.
“The system of funneling people between barbed wires, forcing them to walk to get the food, with armed contractors whose accountability remains unknown, is a recipe for disaster,” said Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres. “Civilians are risking—and in several instances losing—their lives just trying to get food.”
Guterres has called for an immediate and independent investigation into these incidents and for those responsible to be held accountable. “The basic needs of the population in Gaza are enormous and are not being met,” Dujarric added. “Israel has clear obligations under international humanitarian law to agree to and facilitate humanitarian relief for all civilians who need it.”
Militarized Aid and UN Concerns
The GHF, which began operations a week ago, claims to have distributed over 7 million meals from three sites. However, the UN and other aid organizations have refused to collaborate with the GHF, arguing that its model militarizes aid and lacks neutrality. The GHF employs private U.S. security and logistics firms to manage aid delivery, raising questions about accountability and safety.
The organization announced it would halt aid distribution on Wednesday, urging Israel to enhance civilian safety around its sites.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
Meanwhile, the UN Security Council is set to vote on a resolution demanding a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and unimpeded humanitarian access throughout Gaza. The draft also calls for the release of all hostages and the lifting of restrictions on aid entry and distribution.
“The time to act has already passed,” said Samuel Zbogar, Slovenia’s UN Ambassador. “It is our historical responsibility not to remain silent.”
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has described the aid reaching Gaza as “a drop in the ocean,” noting that the amount allowed in does not meet the immense needs on the ground. Since May 17, only half of the pre-cleared supplies have made it through the Kerem Shalom crossing, the sole entry point for aid into Gaza.
“We have enough supplies lined up and ready, close to Gaza,” OCHA stated. “But only limited amounts are reaching the people who need them, and that’s because of conditions on the ground.”
The agency highlighted severe restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities, including frequent denials of requests to move supplies within Gaza and to conduct life-saving operations. These obstacles have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, leading to a rise in child labor, early marriage, and family separation driven by hunger and economic turmoil.
Urgent Call for Action
As famine looms over the enclave, the international community is urging immediate steps to alleviate the suffering of Gaza’s civilians. The UN continues to emphasize the importance of neutral, safe, and effective humanitarian aid delivery, free from militarization and political influence.
“All these restrictions have been taking a toll on civilians,” OCHA reported. “It’s imperative that humanitarian aid reaches those in need without further delay.”
