The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) has confirmed that dozens of aid workers have lost their lives as violence has risen dangerously in the conflict zone. The organization was on their way to a distribution center west of Khan Younis when the attack took place. GHF is in the process of collecting information regarding the incident. So far, initial reports indicate that at least five people are dead as dozens more are injured. There are mounting fears that other members of the team could have been taken hostage.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to be catastrophic. Ongoing airstrikes and Israeli military denials of aid route applications are further complicating and exacerbating the situation. GHF made clear that these factors greatly compound an already shocking state of affairs. The organization pointed out that the continuous displacement of tens of thousands of people has further strained resources and safety for those in the region.
Since GHF started its relief effort, gunfire around its assistance distribution points has resulted in the killing of several Palestinians. This shocking trend underscored the safety concerns with which humanitarian workers in the region were grappling. Since GHF’s inception, it has come under significant fire. These claims include allegations that Hamas is pilfering aid and cashing in by selling the aid. Many international humanitarian aid agencies have condemned this controversy. The United Nations has rightly raised alarm over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.
Hamas media reported that its forces took unspecified actions on Sunday, asserting that “all agents, thieves, and armed criminal gangs are considered legitimate targets for the resistance and its security apparatus.” They further declared a “full authority and mandate to strike decisively against any entity or individual collaborating with the enemy’s plans or with any rogue, criminal, or traitorous elements that violate the law and the traditions of our people.”
GHF condemned the attack on its personnel, stating, “We condemn this heinous and deliberate attack in the strongest possible terms.” They noted, “We are still gathering facts, but what we know is devastating: there are at least five fatalities, multiple injuries, and fear that some of our team members may have been taken hostage.”
GHF is still very much on the ground grappling with the challenges of delivering humanitarian assistance in such perilous circumstances. They’ve committed to provide additional information as soon as it’s available. Today’s crisis further highlights the need for humanitarian organizations in Gaza to have greater security and better access.
