Gaza Aid Operation Faces Allegations of Violence Against Civilians

A former security contractor has alleged serious misconduct by staff at Gaza's new aid distribution centers, including instances of gunfire directed at unarmed civilians. The contractor described a troubling environment with no clear protocols for engagement, leading to deadly confrontations with those seeking help.

A former security contractor employed at the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) has made shocking claims regarding the treatment of Palestinians at aid distribution sites, including instances where staff allegedly fired on unarmed civilians. In an interview with the BBC, the unnamed contractor described witnessing guards open fire with machine guns on groups of men, women, and children who posed no threat.

One of the incidents the contractor recounted involved a guard shooting from a watchtower simply because a group was moving too slowly. When questioned about the event, the GHF categorically denied any such incidents, labeling the contractor as a "disgruntled former employee" dismissed for misconduct, a claim he refuted by providing pay records indicating continued payment post-termination.

The GHF's distribution operations, began at the end of May after a complete blockade of Gaza where no aid could enter. These actions led to criticism from various humanitarian organizations, including allegations that this system has resulted in numerous civilian casualties, with reports indicating over 400 Palestinians have died while attempting to access food aid.

The contractor's allegations extend beyond wrongful shootings; he mentioned a troubling atmosphere within the GHF characterized by a lack of protocols and an impunity to engage in violence. He stated that site managers instructed guards that if they felt threatened, they should "shoot to kill and ask questions later." Comments made by team leaders dehumanizing Gazans, referred to them as "zombie hordes," made matters worse, according to the whistleblower.

Additional concerns raised were related to physical harm inflicted on the civilians by equipment misused during the aid operation. Examples included civilians injured by flying debris from stun grenades and being afflicted by pepper spray.

With escalating violence, over 170 NGOs, including major charities like Oxfam and Save the Children, recently called for the closure of GHF operations, emphasizing that aid-seeking Palestinians are regularly subjected to gunfire from both Israeli forces and armed groups.

In response, the Israeli military maintains that its operations are aimed at assuring humanitarian assistance while preventing aid from falling into Hamas' hands. They also insist that any gunfire heard near GHF sites originates from their operations, not from the GHF staff.

The ongoing conflict has already claimed a staggering number of lives, with reports indicating over 57,130 deaths since escalations began in October 2023, following a significant assault by Hamas.