Gaza Crisis: Destruction, Humanitarian Aid, and UN Controversy

The article analyzes the scale of destruction in Gaza using satellite images, surveys, and public records. Independent researchers estimate that 70% of Gaza's pre-war structures have been damaged or destroyed, with 102,000 buildings completely destroyed. The number of deaths is also estimated to be higher than official reports, with studies suggesting between 60,000-90,000 violent deaths and thousands more from indirect causes. The population has been displaced into a small area, leading to a humanitarian crisis. The cost of rebuilding is estimated to be around $53bn.

The article discusses how the distribution of aid in Gaza has become increasingly deadly, with hundreds of Palestinians killed by Israeli gunfire and in crushes while trying to collect food. Satellite images show crowds forming at checkpoints and aid distribution sites, with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) operating four large distribution hubs. The article highlights the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with the UN reporting that every resident faces food insecurity and a third have gone days without eating. The GHF has handed out over 91 million meals since May, but the distribution process has been marred by violence and chaos.

A whistleblower has alleged that the United Nations is interfering with the delivery of aid to civilians in Gaza, and that the World Food Programme and other U.N. agencies are refusing to coordinate with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to distribute aid. The whistleblower claims that the IDF is actively helping the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) to get food to civilians, while the U.N. agencies are inhibiting the distribution of aid. The whistleblower has filed a formal complaint with the Inspector General of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), alleging gross misconduct and misuse of humanitarian funds by the World Food Programme and other U.N. agencies. The complaint raises serious questions about the U.N.'s role in Gaza and its relationship with Hamas, a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization.