Hamas Seizes UN Food Distribution Site in Gaza, UN Condemns Pattern of Violence

Over the past weekend, Hamas militants took control of a food distribution center operated by the World Food Programme (WFP) in the Jabalya area of northern Gaza. This takeover led to the suspension of the center's operations, which normally provide food aid to thousands of families daily. During the incident, Hamas fighters violently attacked truck drivers delivering humanitarian supplies.

The United Nations issued an unusual statement condemning Hamas for disrupting humanitarian activities, describing the event as part of a recurring pattern of intimidation, violence, and interference with aid efforts in Gaza. UN humanitarian coordinator Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov emphasized that these are not isolated incidents but reflect an escalating trend that endangers aid workers and hampers life-saving assistance.

Israel's Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) also condemned Hamas, stating that the group is focused solely on maintaining its power and instilling fear among the population, while diverting aid meant for civilians. COGAT reiterated that humanitarian aid continues to enter Gaza but is seized by Hamas, preventing it from reaching those in need.

The UN highlighted the severe humanitarian conditions in Gaza and stressed the necessity for aid organizations to operate safely, independently, and without fear of violence or intimidation. The incident coincides with the two-year anniversary of the killing of senior Hamas operative Mohammed Deif, whom Hamas commemorated by releasing a new image of him.

Authorities in Israel pledged to continue efforts to prevent Hamas from exploiting humanitarian channels and to protect the delivery of aid to Gaza's civilian population.