Statement on the Chaos at the Militarized Aid Distribution Sites in Gaza

HI is appalled by the scenes emerging from the newly introduced militarized aid distribution sites in the Gaza Strip. Palestinians, who are on the brink of famine, have been forcibly displaced, harassed, arbitrarily arrested, and even killed as they rush for food in a setting so chaotic and undignified that it goes against every humanitarian principle and international law.

Since last week, at least 49 Palestinians have been killed and over 300 others injured in and around the distribution sites.  

From the outset, we have denounced this fundamentally flawed and dangerous plan of the Israeli government. The aid blockade imposed for 3 months by the Israeli government created an immense need for food, fuel, medicines, gas, and water, which only humanitarian organizations can respond to, through the existing humanitarian distribution and delivery system in place by the United Nations.

These militarized distribution sites fail to meet basic humanitarian standards and put civilian lives at further risk. They are particularly challenging- if not impossible - to access for persons with disabilities, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups, effectively excluding large segments of the population from receiving the aid they urgently need.

We reject this plan and renew our urgent call to allow humanitarian organizations and United Nations agencies to distribute aid efficiently, while respecting the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence. We need an immediate and lasting ceasefire, the unconditional release of hostages, and unimpeded access in the entire Gaza Strip to deliver life-saving aid.  

Humanitarian aid must be delivered safely, fairly, without discrimination, and with full respect for human dignity. Let us do our job!