The UN's stark criticism of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation raises alarming questions about aid delivery amidst ongoing violence.
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The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is deepening, with the United Nations sounding the alarm over the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s (GHF) operations. Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), labeled the GHF a ‘failure’ in its mission to aid those in desperate need.
Laerke’s comments came during a press briefing in Geneva, where he stated, “From a principled humanitarian standpoint, GHF has not succeeded. They are not delivering aid securely to those who need it most.” His words reflect a growing discontent with the foundation’s approach, which many believe prioritizes military objectives over humanitarian needs.
Humanitarian operations stalled
Since its establishment on May 26, the GHF has claimed to distribute over 18 million meals. However, the UN and several key aid organizations have refused to work with them, raising concerns about their operations. The GHF began its work following a complete blockade of supplies into Gaza by Israel that lasted more than two months, leading to dire warnings of mass famine.
As the situation escalates, the death toll continues to rise. Reports indicate that over 30 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes just on Friday, amidst a backdrop of relentless artillery fire and ground attacks in areas like Khan Younis. Al Jazeera’s Tariq Abu Azzoum detailed the chaos, stating, “The Israeli military is intensifying its ground operations, leading to fierce clashes.”
Ongoing violence and communication blackouts
The conflict shows no signs of abating. Gaza remains under a communications blackout for the second consecutive day, a move Hamas has condemned as an aggressive tactic in what they term Israel’s “war of extermination.” Meanwhile, Israel is pushing civilians into a so-called ‘safe zone’ in al-Mawasi, a desolate coastal strip devoid of infrastructure, which has faced repeated bombings. A drone strike there resulted in at least two casualties, leaving many bewildered about where to seek safety.
In the occupied West Bank, Israel has sealed all crossings and checkpoints between Palestinian towns and cities, further restricting movement. This closure came shortly after a series of airstrikes targeting locations in Iran, with no clear indication of when restrictions might be lifted. The Palestine Red Crescent Society reported that ambulances are being denied access to patients in urgent need of medical assistance.
Emergency measures taken
The situation in East Jerusalem is equally dire. Israeli forces have closed Al-Aqsa Mosque, preventing Palestinians from participating in Friday prayers, a significant event in the Muslim calendar. In response, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa convened an emergency cabinet meeting, activating crisis committees across the West Bank. The geopolitical landscape is shifting rapidly, and the humanitarian implications are severe.
As we watch these events unfold, one question looms large: how will the international community respond to the UN’s dire warnings? The stakes have never been higher, and the consequences of inaction may be catastrophic.
