Deadly Incident in Gaza: United Nations Reports 613 Deaths During Aid Distribution; Boys Allegedly Targeted by WHO
In the midst of ongoing conflict, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) has become a significant source of controversy since its establishment in late May 2025. The foundation, backed by the United States, has been distributing aid to the region, but at a cost that has raised concerns and accusations from various quarters.
### Causes and Responsible Parties
The causes of the violence and the parties responsible for the deaths at GHF aid distribution centres are complex and multifaceted. The Israeli military and contractors hired by the GHF have reportedly been ordered to fire on unarmed crowds to keep them away from aid distribution centres, resulting in numerous casualties. Armed groups, including Hamas, have also contributed to the violence, attacking GHF sites and threatening those seeking aid. The GHF's operational model, which requires Palestinians to approach fixed sites, has been criticised for creating dangerous conditions and violating humanitarian norms.
### Casualties
According to the Gaza Health Ministry and the UN, over 600 Palestinians have been killed and more than 4,200 wounded near GHF distribution sites. Approximately 70% of those killed while seeking aid died at GHF sites. The World Health Organization (WHO) is raising concerns about targeted shootings at boys near aid distribution centres.
### International Response
The UN's Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and over 170 charities, including Save the Children and Oxfam, have condemned the GHF's aid delivery system. They call for the immediate closure of the GHF scheme, accusing it of complicity in war crimes and crimes against humanity and demanding greater humanitarian respect and protection for Palestinians.
The US-backed GHF continues its operations despite criticism, distributing millions of meals. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) provide security outside aid sites and facilitate evacuations of injured personnel. However, Israel's blockade and control of aid delivery are seen by some experts as exacerbating humanitarian conditions and limiting impartial aid access.
Major international aid organisations have refused to participate in the GHF distribution system, citing lack of neutrality, independence, and impartiality. They highlight that the distributed aid is inadequate in quantity and nutritional value, and the distribution model does not ensure equitable access amid ongoing violence.
### Allegations of War Crimes
An international report suggests that companies bear co-responsibility for the Gaza war. Allegations of Israeli troops shooting at unarmed civilians near aid distribution points, even in the absence of an immediate threat, have been reported. A participating officer described the Israeli troops' actions towards unarmed civilians as "ethically highly questionable." The Israeli government dismissed accusations of such actions as "blood libel."
In the face of mounting criticism and allegations, the Israeli Prime Minister, Netanyahu, has promised the elimination of Hamas, a pledge made on July 3, 2025. This promise, coupled with reports of Israeli troops opening fire at night or in the early morning hours near aid distribution centres, for both deterrence and security reasons, has further fuelled concerns about the safety of Palestinians seeking aid.
UN organisations do not work with the GHF and criticise, among other things, an insufficient number of distribution centres and the high risk for those seeking aid. The chaotic conditions around the distribution centres in Gaza continue to pose a significant threat to the lives of those seeking much-needed aid. The report titled "Profitable Genocide" highlights these issues and calls for urgent action to ensure the safety and well-being of the people of Gaza.
- The controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation's (GHF) operations, criticized for creating hazardous conditions and violating humanitarian norms, have escalated concerns about health and wellness in the region.
- Science and politics intertwine as allegations of war crimes surface against Israeli troops for shooting at unarmed civilians near aid distribution points, potentially constituting a medical-condition emergency and abuse of power in war-and-conflicts situations.
- Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the GHF, general-news outlets report increasing tensions and violence related to Palestinians seeking aid, highlighting the urgent need for impartial aid, security, and protection in the area.
