Aid distribution crisis deepens in Gaza

[MIDDLE EAST] In the past three days, at least 27 Palestinians were killed and many more wounded by Israeli gunfire as they attempted to reach a food distribution center in southern Gaza operated by the US- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). The Israeli military stated that its troops fired warning shots at individuals who deviated from designated access routes and approached soldiers, claiming these individuals posed a threat, though specifics were not provided. This marks the third consecutive day of deadly violence near GHF aid hubs, with over 100 fatalities reported since the new distribution system began operating in late May.

The GHF, a private organization employing American contractors and heavily armed security, was established to replace the United Nations as the primary distributor of aid in Gaza, aiming to prevent supplies from reaching Hamas. However, the new system has been widely criticized by humanitarian groups and the UN for lacking the capacity, neutrality, and experience needed to address the scale of Gaza’s hunger crisis, which has worsened under an 11-week Israeli blockade. The UN and aid organizations argue that the GHF’s approach undermines humanitarian principles and risks weaponizing aid by tying distribution to military and political objectives.

Following the latest shootings, the GHF announced a temporary closure of its distribution centers for "organization and efficiency improvements," while the Israeli military designated roads to these sites as "combat zones" and warned civilians against travel in the area. International outcry has grown, with the UN’s human rights chief calling the attacks on civilians seeking food a potential war crime and demanding an independent investigation.

Implications

For Businesses:

The involvement of private contractors and American firms in aid distribution marks a significant shift in humanitarian logistics, raising questions about the role of for-profit entities in crisis zones and the reputational risks for companies associated with controversial operations. The chaos and violence surrounding the GHF’s centers could deter future private sector participation in humanitarian efforts, especially where neutrality and independence are questioned.

For Consumers (Gaza Residents):

For Palestinians in Gaza, the new system has not alleviated food insecurity. Crowds continue to risk their lives for scarce aid, with many reporting that after hours of waiting, only a fraction receive assistance. The requirement to follow designated corridors and the presence of armed security have created an environment where seeking food can be life-threatening, compounding the trauma of starvation and conflict.

For Public Policy:

The bypassing of the UN in favor of a US- and Israeli-backed private foundation sets a controversial precedent in international aid delivery. Critics warn that this model erodes established humanitarian norms and could be used to exert political control over civilian populations in future conflicts. Calls for an independent investigation and a return to UN-led aid highlight the urgent need for policy frameworks that prioritize impartiality, safety, and access for all civilians.

What We Think

The recent violence at aid distribution centers in Gaza underscores the dangers of politicizing humanitarian assistance. While the intention behind the GHF’s creation—to prevent aid diversion to Hamas—addresses legitimate security concerns, the exclusion of established humanitarian actors and the reliance on militarized, private contractors have produced chaos rather than relief. The result is a system where desperate civilians are forced to navigate perilous corridors for a chance at survival, often at the cost of their lives.

The international backlash, including from the UN and major aid organizations, signals broad consensus that the current approach fails to meet basic humanitarian standards. As one eyewitness put it, “Going back to the aid distribution is a huge risk and a potential death sentence, but everyone who went had no other choice. If they aren’t killed by bullets or shelling, they will die of hunger.” The GHF’s operational pause and promises of “efficiency improvements” are unlikely to address the root problems: lack of trust, inadequate capacity, and the perception that food is being used as leverage.

Ultimately, the Gaza crisis demonstrates that humanitarian aid cannot be effectively delivered through systems designed for control rather than compassion. Restoring impartial, UN-led coordination and ensuring unimpeded access for all humanitarian actors are essential steps to prevent further tragedy and uphold international law.