Israel has publicly criticized the United Nations (UN) for allegedly attempting to impede the distribution of humanitarian aid to Gaza, as the international body endeavors to manage the limited assistance permitted by Israeli authorities. This conflict emerges alongside a dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where an ongoing blockade has raised alarm among food security experts about the looming threat of starvation for approximately one in five residents.
Israel’s UN Ambassador, Danny Danon, addressed these issues during a Security Council meeting, asserting that while the UN was fostering panic and issuing claims not aligned with reality, Israel was actively facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. According to Danon, aid trucks have been crossing into Gaza via the Kerem Shalom border checkpoint under a restrictive authorization framework that has been in place since last week. This situation follows a two-month blockade imposed by Israel in response to escalating tensions.
The ambassador emphasized a newly established aid distribution mechanism conducted in cooperation with the United States and other international stakeholders, referring specifically to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). This private, US-backed group has developed its own systems for distributing aid, which the UN has deemed inconsistent with its core humanitarian principles. The tensions surrounding aid distribution reached a boiling point when chaotic conditions at a GHF-operated distribution center resulted in injuries to 47 individuals.
Danon attributed the disarray at the GHF center to interference by Hamas, claiming the organization had set up checkpoints designed to obstruct access to the aid distribution site. He further accused the UN of attempting to hinder the delivery of assistance, alleging that the organization has used threats and intimidation against non-governmental organizations (NGOs) involved in the new humanitarian mechanism. Specifically, he stated that the UN had removed certain NGOs from a database listing groups operating in Gaza—an assertion that the UN vehemently denied.
In response, Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, clarified that there had been no alterations to the list of NGOs since the launch of the GHF initiative. He reiterated the UN’s firm stance against collaborating with organizations that do not adhere to established humanitarian guidelines. Dujarric stressed that the UN has made considerable efforts to facilitate aid transport through the Kerem Shalom crossing, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to humanitarian principles despite the challenges.
Since the resumption of limited aid approvals last week, approximately 800 truckloads of aid were sanctioned by Israeli authorities; however, Dujarric reported that fewer than 500 have successfully entered Gaza due to varying factors, including security concerns and restricted access. He acknowledged the obstacles faced by UN and partner organizations in mobilizing aid, stating, “If we’re not able to pick up those goods, I can tell you one thing, it is not for lack of trying.”
In a stark contrast to the UN’s efforts, Danon claimed that more than 400 trucks filled with aid had already reached the Gaza side of the crossing and criticized the UN for not participating in the distribution process, urging, “Put your ego aside, pick up the aid and do your job.”
The humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by the Israeli military’s operations in Gaza, which have reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 54,804 individuals, predominantly civilians according to health ministry data from the region. Israeli military actions have decimated much of Gaza’s infrastructure, leading to the displacement of nearly all of its two million inhabitants. These developments follow the deadly assault by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which killed 1,218 people, according to an AFP tally reflecting official statistics.
The escalating tensions between Israel and the UN over aid distribution underline a broader struggle amid a devastating humanitarian crisis. Experts warn that without effective coordination between relevant organizations and the essential parties involved, worsening conditions could leave many more vulnerable to starvation and suffering in the besieged region.
The unfolding events highlight not only the immediate humanitarian plight of the Gazan population but also the intricate political dynamics that complicate the establishment of effective aid distribution channels. International observers continue to call for a unified approach that prioritizes human rights and humanitarian principles in the delivery of essential assistance, a recommendation that remains critical as the situation in Gaza evolves.
As the international community grapples with the ramifications of the ongoing conflict and humanitarian situation in Gaza, the necessity for collaboration and adherence to humanitarian standards will be vital in mitigating the deepening crisis.