Collapse of Orderly Distribution of New Aid in Gaza Turns into Havoc
In Gaza, a fortified aid distribution compound ran into chaos on Tuesday, just hours after its initial operation, following a surge of Palestinians attempting to acquire aid packages. The compound, roughly the size of three football pitches, was defended by US mercenaries but bore only sand berms as a boundary, rendering it vulnerable to an overrun.
The compound, constructed in mid-April, featured separate entrances for mercenaries and Palestinians, with a central divider. The entrance pathway was around 10 meters wide, partitioned into five lanes by flimsy fences not anchored to concrete foundations. Though initially orderly, the compound was soon inundated by a massive crowd, causing the fences to sag and collapse.
Upon realizing the risk of an uncontrollable situation, the mercenaries were unable to restore order, eventually prompting a chaotic scene as hundreds of Palestinians stormed the compound. Gunfire was reported during the mayhem, leading to one fatality and 48 injuries, as confirmed by Gaza's health ministry, with the vast majority of injuries attributed to gunfire. Both the mercenary forces and Israeli troops disputed responsibility for the gunfire.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the incident, acknowledging a temporary loss of control at the distribution point but confirming that the situation was ultimately regained under control. The U.S. State Department openly defended the rollout of the newly implemented aid system, mentioning that amidst such chaotic circumstances, it was hardly surprising to encounter a few challenges.
As hunger stalks the Gaza Strip due to a lengthy blockade, analysts argue that the new aid distribution system aimed to prevent looting, with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) blaming Hamas for past incidents of stealing aid supplies. However, UN officials and aid workers have contested this claim, asserting that most of the looting was carried out by armed gangs operating near the Israeli border.
The overwhelming response to the aid distribution compound in Rafah raises questions about the system's effectiveness and the safety of those seeking much-needed resources. Further investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the incident and the accountability of the parties involved.
Thechaotic scene at the aid distribution compound in Rafah, steeped in ongoing war-and-conflicts, has sparked heated debates in politics and general-news, with questions looming over the effectiveness of the system designed to prevent looting in times of sanctions. As the region grapples with the repercussions of the incident, officials are urgently conducting investigations to pinpoint accountability for the ensuing violence and casualties.
