Gaza: Gaza's government media office has denied reports claiming that over 100 humanitarian aid trucks entered the besieged enclave on Friday, labeling the claims as "misleading" and an attempt to "cover up the ongoing crime."
According to Anadolu Agency, Gaza Media Office Director Ismail Al-Thawabta issued a statement on Saturday accusing media reports of being part of a "deceptive theatrical performance" designed to mislead global public opinion and obscure the ongoing situation in Gaza. The statement was in response to a report by Egypt's Al Qahera News, which cited an unnamed government source claiming that 117 aid trucks had entered Gaza through the Kerem Shalom and Zikim crossings.
Thawabta highlighted that Israel has maintained a complete closure of the crossings for over 145 days, enforcing a "systematic starvation policy" by blocking essential aid, including infant formula and nutritional supplements, from reaching Gaza. He warned that these conditions are worsening the humanitarian crisis and endangering the lives of hundreds of thousands of civilians.
Observers note that even when a small number of trucks manage to reach the Palestinian side of Kerem Shalom, they often face obstacles such as detention, spoilage, and diversion to Israeli-controlled areas. An investigative report from Israel's state-owned KAN supported these claims, revealing that aid is not reaching civilians but is instead being intercepted and resold on the black market.
The report included admissions from Israeli officers about the destruction of food, water, and medical supplies from over a thousand aid trucks. One officer described the disposal methods, which included burying and burning the supplies left to spoil near the Kerem Shalom crossing.
The situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with social media evidence showing severe malnutrition among Palestinians. The UN World Food Programme recently warned that one-third of Gaza's population has gone days without food due to the ongoing blockade.
Despite calls for a ceasefire, the Israeli military has maintained its offensive on Gaza since October 7, 2023, resulting in significant casualties and destruction. The blockade has led to severe food shortages and humanitarian challenges.
The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders for alleged war crimes in Gaza, and Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice related to its actions in the enclave.