Israel Disputes UN Aid Statistics, Urges Global Transparency
As the debate over the delivery of aid into Gaza intensifies, Israeli officials have once again questioned the United Nations over its data, specifically the number of trucks entering the region and the extent of aid being intercepted or stolen. According to COGAT, the Israeli coordination body, the UN’s records have failed to account for approximately 6,000 additional trucks since May, marking a stark contrast to the UN’s reported numbers of 3,140 intercepted trucks as of August 12. COGAT claims that Israel has allowed around 9,200 trucks into the enclave, a figure 2.5 times higher than the UN’s estimate. The Israeli government asserts that these discrepancies mislead the international community, shaping global media narratives and influencing the positions of international decision-makers regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
In a statement, COGAT emphasized the importance of accurate data to provide a clear picture of the humanitarian situation. The UN Office for Project Services reported that only 11.6% of the aid sent into the region has reached its intended destinations, with the remainder being either taken by civilians or seized by armed actors. However, COGAT contends that these figures do not fully reflect the aid that has successfully entered Gaza, underscoring the need for transparency and cooperation between the UN and Israel to ensure aid reaches those in need.
Meanwhile, the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) has continued its operations in delivering aid to Gaza despite the complexities of the situation. GHF has reported that it has provided over 130 million meals since its inception on May 27, with its success attributed to the use of armed security to protect aid distribution sites. Chapin Fay, the spokesperson for GHF, noted that the presence of armed guards has been crucial in preventing theft and ensuring that aid reaches the population without interference from Hamas. Despite initial skepticism from some NGOs, over 200 international organizations have since expressed support for collaboration with GHF, acknowledging the effectiveness of its approach.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) has raised concerns about the use of armed escorts, stating that such measures could undermine the neutrality and independence of humanitarian efforts. UNOCHA spokesperson emphasized the need for aid to be delivered safely, rapidly, and efficiently, while also highlighting the challenges faced by aid workers, including delays at checkpoints, impassable routes, and restrictions on what can enter the region. However, the spokesperson did not address concerns about the fate of un-delivered aid or the security risks faced by drivers attempting to enter Gaza.
Despite the UN’s claims, growing evidence suggests that Hamas may be diverting and benefiting from humanitarian aid. A State Department public assessment indicated that the U.S. Agency for International Development’s Office of the Inspector General is investigating credible allegations of systematic interference by Hamas in Gaza. Whistleblowers, including UN staff, have reportedly shared information about Hamas’ activities, though they may face political retaliation or violent retribution for doing so. An Israeli military official noted that approximately 40% of diverted aid is taken by local communities, while 60% falls into the hands of armed looters. However, the extent of aid stolen by Hamas remains unclear due to the organization’s lack of uniformed identification.
Legal experts have also weighed in on the situation, with Orde Kittrie, a law professor at Arizona State University, asserting that Hamas’ obstruction of aid violates international law. He cited the Fourth Geneva Convention and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, arguing that Hamas’ actions constitute a violation of the prohibition on starving civilians as a method of warfare. Kittrie suggested that Hamas may be intentionally starving its own population to use their suffering as a strategic information weapon against Israel.
The situation in Gaza continues to evolve, with both the UN and Israel facing significant challenges in ensuring aid reaches those in need. As the humanitarian crisis deepens, the debate over aid delivery mechanisms remains a critical issue, with implications for the global response to the conflict in the region.