New aid flow to Gaza begins amid clashes

Arab World News reports that a controversial new aid distribution system in Gaza commenced operations on 26th May, with the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) announcing the opening of its first distribution hubs and the start of food deliveries to Palestinian civilians facing growing hunger. The launch follows nearly three months of a total Israeli blockade aimed at weakening Hamas.

The GHF, now overseeing aid distribution in Gaza, began its efforts despite vocal objections from the United Nations and humanitarian agencies. The group confirmed that truckloads of food had reached its hubs – without specifying quantity or locations – and that distribution to civilians was underway. “More trucks with aid will be delivered tomorrow, with the flow of aid increasing each day,” GHF stated.

The timing of the rollout coincided with one of the deadliest days in recent weeks, as Israeli airstrikes killed at least 52 Palestinians across Gaza, including in civilian shelters, according to health officials cited by Arab World News.

The new aid system is jointly supported by Israel and the United States, both of which argue that existing channels have enabled Hamas to intercept humanitarian supplies. However, the United Nations and multiple aid organisations have rejected those claims, warning that the revised model may undermine neutral humanitarian access and could be used as a tool of political leverage.

UN officials argue that no credible evidence has been presented to support Israel’s claims of widespread aid diversion by Hamas, and they accuse Israeli authorities of attempting to use food as a weapon to pressure civilian populations.

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s launch came just one day after the resignation of its executive director, Jake Wood, an American national who said it had become evident the organisation would not be permitted to operate independently. The group has since appointed John Acree as interim leader. It remains unclear who is financing the foundation, which is staffed by former military, humanitarian, and governmental figures.

According to its public statements, GHF plans to reach up to 1 million Palestinians – around half of Gaza’s population – by the end of the week. The foundation has pledged that its aid hubs will be secured by private contractors rather than international peacekeeping or UN personnel, raising further questions about transparency and accountability.

Hamas issued a stark warning to Palestinians, urging them not to engage with the new distribution system, claiming it is part of Israel’s broader strategy to depopulate Gaza. The group accused Israel of engineering forced displacement under the guise of humanitarian assistance – a claim Israel denies.

Arab World News/ Maghrebi.org