The U.N. has criticized Israel's control over humanitarian aid to Gaza, labeling it an assault on human dignity, amidst rising tensions and casualties from desperate crowds seeking food.
U.N. Condemns Israeli Humanitarian Aid System as Disproportionate Measures Escalate
U.N. Condemns Israeli Humanitarian Aid System as Disproportionate Measures Escalate
Global reactions intensify as Israel's new aid program faces scrutiny after tragic incidents in Gaza.
The United Nations has voiced strong opposition to Israel’s newly implemented system controlling the distribution of humanitarian aid to the Palestinian population in Gaza. A senior U.N. official described this development as “an assault on their human dignity.” Following an extensive period during which aid was withheld from Gaza, Israel asserts that its revised approach aims to prevent Hamas from misappropriating resources.
Recent reports from the U.N. World Food Program indicated that at least two fatalities occurred when crowds breached a food warehouse in central Gaza, highlighting the severity of the current crisis. The problem escalated earlier when many individuals were injured in a chaotic surge at an aid distribution site shortly after the launch of Israel's new program.
In response to the escalating situation, European diplomats have expressed profound concern about Israel’s conduct during the conflict, with mounting pressure from the U.S. to negotiate a cease-fire. Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s leading diplomat, emphasized the unacceptability of disproportionate force and civilian casualties, while insisting that aid should remain free from political influence.
As observed by Patrick Kingsley, the Jerusalem bureau chief, the U.N.’s condemnation was anticipated given its warnings about the potential hazards of transferring aid management from U.N. agencies to the new Israeli system. While Israeli officials contend that this policy will hinder attempts by Hamas to stockpile food resources, the U.N. cautions that it could endanger the civilian population, compelling them to travel significant distances to access limited aid distribution points that are under Israeli control.
Amid these tensions, dialogue continues as Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s envoy to the Middle East, reported that the White House is preparing to unveil a new plan aimed at achieving a lasting cease-fire in the region.
