Gaza Aid Controversy: Allegations of Violence Emerge from Aid Operation

A former contractor has made explosive allegations against the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, reporting instances of gunfire directed at vulnerable civilians at aid distribution locations, igniting calls for accountability amid escalating violence.

A former security contractor with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) has revealed alarming allegations to the BBC, claiming that aid guards opened fire on unarmed Palestinians at aid distribution points. This disclosure comes amid ongoing humanitarian struggles in Gaza following a severe blockade, which had limited access to food and essential supplies.

The contractor reported several occasions where colleagues discharged firearms, including machine guns, at individuals who posed no threat. In one instance, he recounted, a guard opened fire from a watchtower after a slow-moving group of elderly people and children. The GHF, which commenced operations in Gaza at the end of May, responded to these allegations, asserting they are categorically false and that no civilians were fired upon at their sites.

Since the GHF began operations, over 400 Palestinians have reportedly been killed while seeking food aid, according to local doctors and the UN. While GHF claims the distribution system prevents aid from reaching Hamas, critics argue it compels individuals to traverse active combat zones, putting them at significant risk.

Describing an incident involving guards shooting at aid seekers, the contractor stated, "As that happened, another contractor opened up with 15 to 20 shots of repetitive weapons fire at the crowd." He reported seeing a Palestinian man fall, prompting laughter among the contractors at the scene. The GHF has dismissed the contractor as a disgruntled former employee, but he provided evidence of leaving amicably.

The contractor expressed concerns about the lack of operational guidelines, claiming they were instructed to shoot to kill if they felt threatened. He further criticized the toxic culture within the organization, which dehumanized Palestinians, referring to them as "zombie hordes."

He noted that Palestinians suffered injuries not only from gunfire but also from stun grenade debris and mace, recounting specific instances of injuries inflicted during chaotic situations at the aid sites. Following the revelations, more than 170 NGOs, including Oxfam and Save the Children, have called for the shutdown of GHF amidst allegations of routine gunfire aimed at aid recipients.

Despite GHF claiming to have delivered over 52 million meals within five weeks, Israel defends the GHF's operation as necessary for bypassing Hamas involvement, although it insists its forces do not intentionally target civilians. Since the onset of renewed conflict following a significant Hamas attack on October 7, at least 57,130 people have lost their lives in Gaza, as reported by the Hamas-run health ministry.