Chaos erupted at a newly established aid distribution center in southern Gaza as hundreds of desperate civilians surged to obtain food amid gunfire and mounting panic. The Israeli-supported initiative, managed by private contractors, faced significant challenges controlling the crowds on its inaugural full day of operation, underscoring the severe humanitarian crisis gripping the region.
Footage verified by The New York Times revealed large crowds, including women and children, forcefully entering the compound located in Rafah’s Tel al-Sultan neighborhood. Many climbed sand berms or broke through fences to access food packages distributed by the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), an organization approved by Israel.
“Suddenly, a large number of people started pushing and entering randomly,” said Ayman Abu Zaid, a displaced Gaza resident who had been waiting in line. “They tried to get in to take whatever they could.” Amid the chaos, distant gunfire was heard, causing panic among the crowd. Israeli forces stationed outside the compound confirmed firing warning shots but denied use of aerial fire during the incident.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged a “momentary loss of control,” although Israeli military officials deemed the operation overall successful. The GHF reported temporarily withdrawing its team to allow a limited number of civilians to safely collect aid and to disperse the crowd.
The security setup included American contractors managing the site while Israeli troops secured the perimeter. However, the overwhelming influx of people outpaced planned protocols. Sources revealed that Palestinians working at the center formed a protective cordon around remaining supplies while contractors pulled back to avoid confrontation, refraining from using weapons.
This aid effort comes after Israel imposed a blockade in March that suspended critical food and fuel deliveries to Gaza, halting most humanitarian operations. The blockade has intensified hunger and uncertainty among the population.
One resident, known only as Hassan, recounted walking over three miles from his shelter in Khan Younis to the distribution site, only to return empty-handed. “My stomach was empty, and I had to walk all the way back to the tent where my family is staying,” he said.
Despite the turmoil, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has resumed operations. Video footage from earlier in the day showed some civilians successfully receiving aid, although the total number served prior to the disorder remains unclear.
Tuesday’s events highlight the dire desperation of Gaza’s civilians and the immense challenges associated with delivering humanitarian assistance amid ongoing conflict and security concerns.
