Gaza Aid Distribution Temporary Halted

(The Post News)- The U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) announced it will suspend aid distribution on Wednesday, citing the need for enhanced civilian safety following deadly violence near its distribution sites. The pause comes just one day after dozens of Palestinians seeking aid were killed in chaotic scenes near a GHF facility.

In a statement, GHF said it is urging the Israeli military to take specific steps to improve safety for civilians gathering near aid sites. These include better crowd control measures, clearer civilian guidance, and improved training to prevent escalation around military perimeters.

“Our top priority remains ensuring the safety and dignity of civilians receiving aid,” a GHF spokesperson said.

The Israeli military, meanwhile, issued a stark warning, advising civilians to avoid areas leading to GHF sites on Wednesday, labeling them “combat zones.”

The GHF is operating under a controversial new model of aid distribution launched late last month amid Israel’s renewed offensive in Gaza. Aid is now distributed from just three sites for over two million people, with private U.S.-based security and logistics contractors involved. The United Nations and several humanitarian organisations have criticised the setup, warning it risks militarizing aid and placing civilians in further danger.

Tensions flared again Wednesday morning when an Israeli airstrike hit a school sheltering displaced families west of Khan Younis, killing at least 18 people, including women and children. The day’s death toll in Gaza has reportedly reached 21.

On Tuesday, the Israeli military said its forces opened fire on a group it deemed a threat near a GHF food distribution site. The International Committee of the Red Cross reported at least 27 fatalities and dozens more injured. GHF later stated the incident occurred “well beyond” the perimeter of its operation.

Eyewitnesses who received food aid on Tuesday described scenes of panic, with no visible security or organised distribution system. Crowds reportedly surged without ID checks or coordination, leading to chaos.

As the humanitarian situation deteriorates, the UN Security Council is set to vote on a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and expanded humanitarian access throughout Gaza. The enclave continues to face widespread malnutrition, with aid efforts hampered by logistical hurdles and ongoing violence, even after Israel lifted an 11-week blockade in late May.

“It is unacceptable. Civilians are risking — and in several instances losing their lives just trying to get food,” said UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric. He criticized the current aid model supported by the U.S. and Israel as “a recipe for disaster.”

Since launching operations a week ago, GHF says it has distributed more than seven million meals. Interim Executive Director John Acree issued a call to international humanitarian actors in Gaza: “Work with us and we will get your aid delivered to those who are depending on it.”