- Barrels of tears and shrieks of despair echo through the dense smoke trail.*
Israeli Forces Reportedly Kill 31 at Palestinian Aid Center under Hamas Control in Fresh Clash - Intense shelling by Israel results in 31 fatalities near a humanitarian aid center, as per Hamas officials.
Gaza Strip is reeling once more as another 31 civilians meet their untimely end, caught in the crossfire of yet another violent clash between Hamas and Israeli forces. Aid worker, Mahmud Bassal, speaking to news agency AFP, revealed this heartrending incident occurred during a convoy en route to an aid center operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). The UN and major international aid organizations refuse to work with GHF, accusing it of catering to the whims of the Israeli army.
The ill-fated convoy was on its way to a distribution center launched by GHF, a US-supported foundation established in February 2025 amidst the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. GHF initiated operations in the Gaza Strip on May 26, setting up distribution centers in the southern and central regions of the Palestinian territory.
What Exactly is GHF?
Established in response to the ongoing humanitarian turmoil in Gaza, GHF operates with backing from the Trump administration and Israeli government. Critics argue that GHF politicizes aid distribution to serve Israeli interests.
The foundation's leadership and funding have come under scrutiny, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest. Previously headed by Jake Wood, who stepped down on May 25, 2025, GHF has been contemplated to secure up to $500 million from the US via USAID.
Controversies Surrounding GHF's Operations
Violence and Casualties
Troubling reports have surfaced regarding Israeli forces employing live fire against Palestinians attempting to access aid from GHF sites. To date, over 220 civilians have lost their lives while seeking aid from these centers.
Criticism and Legitimacy
Amnesty International and other humanitarian groups cry foul, slamming GHF's actions as deliberate and harmful. The UN and other international organizations have raised concerns about the politicization of aid and the lack of neutrality in GHF's operations.
Current Standoff
Despite ongoing challenges, GHF continues its operations, having established three hubs as of early June 2025. Despite efforts, only two are operational due to the mounting security issues. The international community remains divided, with some leaders condemning Israel's actions and advocating for immediate relief, while others maintain a more cautious approach.
As the death toll climbs, the Palestinians are left wondering if they will ever receive the aid they so desperately need. As for GHF, its unclear if it can maintain its operations amid such bloodshed and controversy. The world watches on, hoping for a resolution to this endless cycle of violence and despair.
The Palestinian Authority has been asked to take a position on the situation in the Gaza Strip, where over 220 civilians have been killed while seeking aid from GHF centers amidst allegations of politicization and improper use of aid for Israeli interests. The ongoing violence and controversy surrounding GHF's operations in general-news, war-and-conflicts, and politics remain a international concern, with calls for immediate relief and questions about the foundation's legitimacy and neutrality.
