US Holds Hamas Responsible for Attack on American Aid Workers in Gaza
The United States has pointed the finger at Hamas for an attack that wounded two American aid workers at a food distribution center in Gaza. These individuals were part of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a U.S.-backed organization providing crucial assistance amid ongoing conflict.
Details of the Incident and Aid Workers’ Condition
The GHF confirmed that the two Americans injured in the attack are currently receiving medical treatment and remain in stable condition, with non-life-threatening wounds. According to preliminary reports, the assault was carried out by two attackers who threw grenades at the aid workers immediately after a successful food distribution event serving thousands of Gazans.
A spokesperson for the US State Department condemned the violence, labeling Hamas as the perpetrators behind the assault. In a public statement, she emphasized the severity of targeting individuals dedicated to humanitarian relief, highlighting that GHF has delivered over 62 million meals to those in need.
Security and Military Context
GHF employs private U.S. military contractors for protection at its distribution sites, reflecting the dangers present in the region. Meanwhile, the Israeli military accused various so-called "terrorist organizations" of deliberately sabotaging aid efforts within Gaza.
The backdrop of this attack includes continued violence amid fragile attempts to broker a ceasefire. Hamas expressed willingness to enter talks following a US-brokered proposal, signaling a potential, yet tenuous, shift toward diplomacy. A high-level meeting between the US President and the Israeli Prime Minister is scheduled soon, aiming to address ongoing tensions.
Rising Casualties Near Aid Sites
Recent reports from Gaza’s authorities indicate at least 70 deaths in the past 24 hours due to Israeli military actions, with 23 casualties occurring near aid distribution points. Although details remain scarce, these deaths underscore the perilous environment surrounding humanitarian operations.
The Israeli military confirmed that over the previous week, its forces neutralized 100 militants in Gaza and maintain operational control over 65% of the territory, especially following a focused offensive in the northern Gaza Strip.
Humanitarian Challenges and Controversies
The Hamas-run interior ministry in Gaza has cautioned residents against cooperating with GHF, citing safety concerns after multiple deadly incidents near aid sites. The GHF’s approach circumvents traditional aid channels, including the United Nations—which has criticized the organization as not impartial or neutral.
Since the lifting of an 11-week blockade on Gaza in mid-May, the UN reports that more than 400 Palestinians have lost their lives while attempting to receive aid. Notably, many of these fatalities occurred at or near GHF distribution points.
Broader Conflict Overview
This recent surge in violence traces back to October 2023, when Hamas launched a deadly attack on southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. In retaliation, Israel commenced a severe military offensive in Gaza.
According to Gaza’s health ministry, Israeli operations have resulted in over 57,000 Palestinian deaths, alongside a widespread hunger crisis, mass displacement of Gaza’s population, and severe humanitarian distress. These developments have sparked allegations of war crimes and genocide, which Israel strongly denies.
