Hamas terrorists invaded the Abu Rashid food distribution point in Jabalia on Saturday, assaulting two drivers who were delivering humanitarian supplies. The warehouse, operated by the World Food Programme, became a direct target of the terror group's operations. This incident represents a clear pattern of Hamas exploiting critical aid infrastructure for its own ends.
The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) swiftly condemned the attack. COGAT stated that the raid “constitutes further clear evidence that Hamas cynically exploits the humanitarian space and the aid intended for the residents of the Gaza Strip for its own purposes.” This Israeli security body consistently highlights Hamas's deliberate obstruction of aid.
United Nations Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov complained on Sunday about the incident. He referred to “de facto authorities” invading and assaulting staff at the site, notably failing to name Hamas directly. Dr. Alakbarov “strongly” condemned the actions of these unnamed entities.
He cited a “dangerous pattern of intimidation, violence and obstruction, including smuggling attempts, targeting and abusing humanitarian operations.” This pattern, according to the UN official, is perpetrated by the same “de facto authorities” he declined to identify. The UN's reluctance to name the aggressor directly undermines accountability.
Hamas's Exploitation of Aid
COGAT provided a stark assessment of the situation. “The facts are clear: humanitarian aid is entering the Gaza Strip,” COGAT asserted. The Israeli coordinator emphasized that the issue lies not with aid entry, but with its distribution.
“Hamas is the party undermining the distribution mechanisms, seizing humanitarian aid, and preventing it from reaching the civilian population,” COGAT added. This direct statement from an Israeli security authority contradicts narratives that often obscure the terror group's role in civilian suffering. The assault on aid workers and the seizure of supplies directly impact the most vulnerable.
International Double Standards
Despite Hamas's documented interference, Dr. Alakbarov also criticized Israel's presence in the territory. He claimed Israel’s expansive control was a major threat to humanitarian supplies in the Palestinian territory. “The expansion of areas under Israeli control is further reducing the space available to civilians, making it imperative that humanitarian assistance is able to move safely and reach people in need without interference,” he wrote. This assertion shifts blame while Hamas actively obstructs aid.
Dr. Alakbarov also stated that “Under international humanitarian law, all parties must respect and protect humanitarian personnel, facilities and relief supplies, and refrain from actions that obstruct humanitarian operations.” His general call for adherence to international law from “all parties” stands in stark contrast to his specific omission of Hamas by name. This creates a moral equivalence where none exists.
He concluded that “The people of Gaza have already endured immense suffering. They cannot be subjected to further delays or disruptions in the delivery of life-saving assistance.” Dr. Alakbarov added that humanitarian organizations must be able to carry out their work safely, independently, impartially and without fear of intimidation or violence. Yet, his own statement failed to identify the primary source of intimidation and violence against aid operations in Gaza.