Israeli military declares roads to Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s aid distribution sites as ‘combat zones’.
According to the Israeli military, the roads leading to these distribution centers will be treated as ‘combat zones’ on Wednesday, and people in Gaza have been warned to avoid the area.
The organization has confirmed the prohibition of travel to the distribution centers on Wednesday and has emphasized that entering these areas will be strictly forbidden.
In a social media announcement, GHF stated that the temporary suspension is intended for renovation, reorganization, and efficiency improvements.
The halt in aid distribution follows a distressing trend, as over 100 Palestinians seeking aid have been killed by Israeli forces near GHF distribution centers since operations began on May 27.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an independent inquiry into these deaths and has insisted that those responsible be held accountable, emphasizing that it is “unacceptable” for Palestinians to risk their lives for food.
Israel’s military has acknowledged shooting at aid seekers on Tuesday, claiming that the individuals strayed from a designated path. The military is currently investigating the incident and the casualties.
Leader of the US-based evangelical Christian group, Reverend Dr. Johnnie Moore, has been named as the new executive chairman of GHF. Moore previously advised the White House under former President Donald Trump and has stated that GHF is capable of delivering food safely and effectively.
However, the UN and other aid organizations have refused to partner with GHF, criticizing the group for its lack of neutrality and accusations of militarizing aid in Gaza. Israel is also accused of weaponizing hunger due to its blockade on essential goods entering the Gaza Strip.
Dr. Moore’s appointment has sparked additional concerns due to his support for former President Trump’s proposal to have the US take control of Gaza, which includes the forced removal of the Palestinian population for real estate development.
The GHF’s initial executive director, Jake Wood, a former US Marine, resigned before the operations in Gaza, questioning the organization’s impartiality and independence.
Critics argue that GHF has not been transparent about its funding sources and potentially facilitates the Israeli military’s goal of depopulating northern Gaza by concentrating aid distribution in the south, forcing people to risk their lives to receive assistance.
