Chaos Erupts as Palestinians Rush to Gaza Aid Center

Thousands of desperate Palestinians surged into a newly opened aid distribution center in southern Gaza on Tuesday, overwhelming security and igniting chaos as Israeli troops fired warning shots to disperse the crowd.

The center, operated by the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), had just commenced operations in Rafah amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.

Aid Center Overrun Amid Desperation

Eyewitnesses reported scenes of desperation as people broke through fences and barriers to access food supplies. Israeli military forces, stationed nearby, responded with warning shots, leading to panic and injuries among the crowd. At least three Palestinians were reported injured during the incident.

The GHF, supported by the U.S. and Israel, aims to distribute essential aid to Gaza's population, which has been facing severe shortages due to an Israeli blockade in place since March. The foundation reported distributing 8,000 food boxes, equivalent to approximately 462,000 meals, since launching operations.

Controversy Surrounds Aid Distribution

The aid distribution initiative has faced criticism from international organizations, including the United Nations, which have boycotted the program. Concerns have been raised over the use of biometric screening technologies, such as facial recognition, at aid sites, which critics argue could endanger civilians.

Additionally, the requirement for families to travel long distances to secured hubs has been criticized as a humanitarian violation and a potential cover for forced displacement. The UN has emphasized the need for an "operationally sound plan" to deliver aid effectively and safely.

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