Thousands of Palestinians in Gaza forcibly entered a United Nations warehouse on May 28, 2025, as the humanitarian crisis worsens following 18 months of protracted conflict and a recent blockade. The World Food Programme (WFP) reported tragic casualties amid the chaos, with two possible deaths and multiple injuries as desperate crowds sought food supplies.
The incident took place at the WFP’s Al-Ghafari warehouse in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, where emergency food reserves were stored. Footage captured by AFP showed large groups breaking into the facility while gunshots were heard nearby. The WFP confirmed the incident and highlighted that the details were still under verification.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical, with experts warning that starvation threatens approximately 20% of the population. Aid deliveries have only recently resumed following a two-month blockade. Tensions have escalated as Israel and the UN exchanged accusations regarding the management and distribution of aid supplies amid limited access.
Israel accused the UN of obstructing a parallel aid distribution mechanism supported by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a US-backed group operating independently from traditional UN channels. According to Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, this alternative framework is designed to facilitate aid delivery through the Kerem Shalom crossing, with US and international partners involved. Danon claimed the UN has threatened NGOs cooperating with the GHF, accusing it of undermining aid efforts.
Conversely, the UN steadfastly refused to engage with the GHF, emphasizing adherence to humanitarian principles and the importance of coordinated efforts. Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres, stated that while approximately 800 truckloads of aid were approved by Israel since the previous week, fewer than 500 had successfully crossed into Gaza.
On the 600th day of the ongoing conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that the military offensive had significantly shifted regional dynamics, citing the elimination of thousands of militants, including senior Hamas figures. Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff expressed cautious optimism about progress toward a potential ceasefire, aiming for a temporary halt and eventual peaceful resolution.
Despite diplomatic efforts, many Gazans remain despondent. Residents like Bassam Daloul voiced skepticism, observing relentless violence and suffering. Civilian casualties continue to rise, with Hamas-governed Gaza’s health ministry reporting nearly 4,000 deaths since March 18, and total conflict-related fatalities surpassing 54,000.
In Israel, public demonstrations calling for ceasefire have intensified, coinciding with the anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attacks that triggered the conflict escalation. Hostage families also voiced concerns over deteriorating conditions amid ongoing military operations.
The complex interplay between humanitarian access, military engagement, and political negotiations continues to shape the dire situation in Gaza, leaving the population caught in a relentless crisis.
