Context:

The new aid distribution system for Gaza, established by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, is embroiled in chaos and controversy, with allegations of threats from Hamas, which Hamas denies. The distribution centers have witnessed violence, resulting in nearly 50 deaths and 300 injuries since operations began, exacerbating the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. Israel's blockade, which lasted almost 80 days, has been partially lifted, but aid remains insufficient, as evidenced by the UN's warning about the severe caloric deficit among Gazans. The foundation's attempts to distribute aid have been hampered by logistical issues and accusations of bias, with distribution centers closing abruptly due to surrounding chaos. The situation remains volatile, with international aid groups and the UN criticizing the current system and warning of potential war crimes if aid continues to be impeded.

Dive Deeper:

• The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which bypasses traditional aid systems, has faced accusations from Hamas of lacking neutrality after claiming that its workers were threatened by the militant group, a claim Hamas denies.

• Since the foundation began operations in late May, shootings near distribution centers have claimed nearly 50 lives and injured around 300, with Israeli military admitting to opening fire on individuals who strayed from designated routes.

• Israel's blockade, intended to pressure Hamas, lasted nearly 80 days, cutting off essential supplies and leading to widespread starvation risks, though it was lifted in mid-May following international pressure.

• The aid distribution system is criticized for being part of Israel's military strategy, with the UN and aid groups boycotting it, and reports of aid being diverted under the previous UN-managed system lacking evidence.

• Operations by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation have been marked by chaos, with centers opening and closing abruptly due to crowd control issues, and the foundation facing backlash on social media for poor communication.

• Despite some aid resuming, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization reports that Gazans receive only two-thirds of needed daily calories, warning that further obstruction of aid could be deemed a war crime.

• The overall aid situation in Gaza is precarious, with difficulties in accessing distribution sites and ongoing disputes between the foundation, Hamas, and international bodies over the effectiveness and neutrality of aid efforts.