UN Denounces U.S.-Led Gaza Food Aid Plan as a Recipe for Disaster
Dozens of Gazans have died while seeking food at newly established, militarized aid distribution points amid escalating tensions.
The newly implemented aid program for Gaza, administered by the United States and backed by Israel, has come under fierce criticism from the United Nations, which has condemned it as a “recipe for disaster.” The remarks came after a series of deadly incidents at the recently opened, militarized food distribution points run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), where desperate crowds seeking food have resulted in numerous deaths over the past three days.
Israel approved the operation of these fortified GHF sites, which are intended to provide life-saving aid to Gaza’s starving population. However, access requires civilians to navigate perilous routes through militarized zones and areas previously marked for evacuation, adding layers of danger to an already dire humanitarian situation.
Stephane Dujarric, chief spokesman for the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, criticized the arrangement, stating, “The system of funneling people between barbed wires, forcing them to walk to get the food, with armed contractors whose accountability remains unknown is a recipe for disaster.” He emphasized that it is unacceptable for civilians to risk—or lose—their lives simply trying to secure food for their families.
Guterres has called for an immediate and independent investigation into the deadly incidents, urging that those responsible be held accountable. He further underscored that the basic needs of Gaza’s population remain unmet, and reminded Israel of its obligations under international humanitarian law to facilitate unhindered relief efforts for all civilians in need.
Amid the unfolding crisis, the UN Security Council is expected to vote on a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and full humanitarian access across Gaza. The draft resolution includes calls for the release of all hostages and for the lifting of restrictions on the entry and distribution of aid—including by the UN—throughout the enclave. “The time to act has already passed,” said Slovenia's UN Ambassador Samuel Zbogar, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
The GHF, which launched operations only a week ago, reports distributing more than seven million meals from three fortified distribution sites. However, the foundation announced that no aid would be dispensed on Wednesday as it presses Israel to improve safety beyond the perimeters of its sites. Aid organizations, including the UN, continue to refuse cooperation with the GHF program, citing concerns over its lack of neutrality and its reliance on privatized, militarized security and logistics companies.
'A drop in the ocean'
Even as the recent lifting of an 11-week blockade has permitted some aid to reach Gaza, humanitarian organizations have struggled with severe bottlenecks at the Kerem Shalom crossing—the enclave’s sole operational entry point for supplies. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) described the amount of aid reaching Gazans as “a drop in the ocean” compared to overwhelming needs on the ground.
“We have enough supplies lined up and ready, close to Gaza,” OCHA reported, “but only limited amounts are reaching the people who need them, and that's because of conditions on the ground.” Since May 17, only half of pre-cleared shipments have managed to pass through to the Palestinian side. So far, approximately 370 truckloads—including flour, medical items, and nutrition supplies—have made it in, but further distribution is hampered by continued conflict and restricted movement within Gaza.
Israeli authorities maintain tight controls not just at the border, but over all humanitarian movements inside Gaza, often rejecting requests for supply collection, water delivery, or fuel relocation. On Monday alone, 10 of 13 such coordination requests were denied, further obstructing assistance efforts.
These compounding restrictions and mounting dangers are exacting a devastating toll on Gaza’s civilian population. OCHA has reported a sharp increase in child labor, early marriage, and family separation as hunger, displacement, and economic instability grip the region ever tighter. The humanitarian crisis shows no sign of easing, with international agencies continuing to press for both increased aid and the protection of civilians in the beleaguered territory.
