The Quest for Food in Gaza

NEAR THE NETZARIM CORRIDOR, Gaza Strip

Obtaining food in Gaza currently involves significant risks. The process described here is based on direct observation at a food distribution site established with support from the United States and Israel, operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).

Conditions at Food Distribution Sites

According to Gaza health officials and international medical teams, since May 26, thousands of Palestinians seeking food at these sites have been wounded and hundreds killed by Israeli military fire. Many others have left without food due to crowding.

This account describes experiences inside what GHF refers to as a "Secure Distribution Site."

The United Nations has described the food program as a "death trap."

Motivation for Visiting the Distribution Site

After nearly 21 months of conflict, food shortages have become severe. Restrictions on food entry and distribution have contributed to widespread hunger. Gaza health officials have reported deaths from malnutrition, including among children.

Many people appear weak and require support to walk. Fainting in public spaces is common.

Personal food supplies have been reduced to one small meal per day. Basic items such as flour, lentils, and cooking oil have become unavailable. Prices for available food items have increased significantly, making them inaccessible for many.

Due to these circumstances, obtaining food from GHF became the only option, despite the risks involved at the distribution sites.

Preparation for the Journey

A small backpack was packed with water, bandages, and a first aid kit. Some individuals carry empty sacks and knives for self-protection, as incidents of theft have increased.

Crowds gather late at night near the food site, waiting for it to open. The site is located near the Netzarim corridor, an Israeli military zone. Approaching the site before it opens can result in military fire.

GHF does not have fixed opening hours. The site opens and closes quickly, and those who arrive first are more likely to receive food. Some people move to the front of the crowd before the site opens, which can be perceived as a threat by Israeli soldiers.

At 1:30 a.m. on June 24, a car announced the opening of the site, prompting crowds to run toward it. Some individuals were injured in the rush.

Encounter with Military Forces

Upon arrival, an Israeli tank was present, indicating the site was not yet open. The crowd began to retreat, and the tank opened fire. Individuals took cover, and there were reports of injuries and fatalities.

By 1:48 a.m., gunfire continued, but crowds remained. At 2 a.m., the gunfire stopped, and people moved toward the site.

The Israeli military stated that people had gathered near Israeli troops and that reports of injuries were under review. Media reports have cited allegations of deliberate fire at unarmed crowds, which Israeli leaders have denied. NPR has not independently confirmed these claims.

Conditions Inside the Food Site

When the site opened, people entered by tearing down a fence to access boxes of food. Large crowds competed for the available supplies.

A woman was observed holding knives to protect her food and her child. There was little order at the site.

Previous Food Distribution Practices

Earlier in the conflict, aid centers distributed food in a more organized manner, with recipients notified by text message and waiting in line. Israel and the U.S. accused Hamas of diverting aid, leading to the establishment of GHF to prevent this. However, individuals believed to be affiliated with Hamas were observed collecting food at the site.

During filming, private armed U.S. contractors guarding the site used laser sights and instructed that filming was not allowed.

GHF's Response

GHF stated that unpredictable opening times are intended to prevent crowd surges and that it has requested the Israeli military to improve safe access. The military has reportedly opened new roads and added signage.

GHF indicated that screening for Hamas affiliates is not feasible but stated that it prevents Hamas from controlling aid distribution. Filming of U.S. contractors is prohibited due to reported online threats.

GHF also reported that its workers have faced threats and attacks, including incidents involving grenades.

A group of 170 human rights and aid organizations has called for changes to the current food distribution system.

Incidents of Theft

At the site, individuals collected whatever food was available, sometimes from the ground. Exiting the site with food was challenging due to the crowds.

After leaving, the group was confronted by masked individuals with knives who demanded a portion of the food. Some food was handed over before leaving the area.

The food obtained was sufficient for approximately one and a half weeks, with continued rationing.

Aftermath at the Hospital

Later that morning, hospitals reported over 200 people wounded and 26 killed outside the food site. Similar incidents have occurred at GHF's other sites, which are currently the main distribution points for Gaza's population.

Families seeking food for their households were present at hospitals with injured relatives. One individual with multiple gunshot wounds was receiving treatment. A mother mourned her son, who had previously obtained food from the site but was now deceased.

Due to shortages of burial materials, some bodies were covered with empty food sacks distributed as aid.

Despite the risks, many continue to seek food from these sites to support their families.