Receiving international aid in Gaza is becoming increasingly deadly. In a recent tragedy, a day meant specifically for women to receive aid ended in death.
On July 24, GHF announced on social media a “women-only” food distribution day. The event, held in the southern Rafah district of Saudi, requested that men stay away. The announcement was accompanied by images of smiling women and aid boxes.
But for the population living in severe conditions, especially women, this did not guarantee safety. At least two women were killed that day — including Maryam, a mother of seven.
A Mother Dies Searching for Aid
Maryam’s husband had died at the beginning of the war. In recent weeks, she and her children survived only on lentil soup. According to her sister Khawla, although her children told her not to go because of the danger, Maryam believed that since it was “women’s day,” the risk would be lower.
But when they arrived at the distribution point, chaos had already erupted. “They used tear gas and then stun grenades to push the women back,” said Khawla. In the crowd, the sisters were separated. When Khawla called Maryam, a stranger answered: “The phone’s owner has been shot. She's being taken to the Red Cross hospital.”
Later calls confirmed that Maryam had been shot in the head and died. “She went to get food for her children, but paid with her life,” said Khawla.
Civilian Deaths Increasing
According to the UN, since the GHF system was introduced in May, more than 1,000 Palestinians — mostly trying to access aid — have been killed by Israeli forces. Many shootings occur near distribution points.
Anthony, a former U.S. military officer who worked with GHF, that he had never seen “such brutality and unnecessary use of force against innocent, starving people.” He personally witnessed Israeli forces firing at civilians.
Humanitarian System Under Fire
The GHF system was implemented with U.S. and Israeli support, but the UN and major international organizations criticize it. Previously, Gaza had around 400 aid distribution points — now, only 4 GHF centers remain. Just 1 or 2 operate daily, and reaching them is extremely dangerous as civilians must enter military zones.
The UN called the system “morally unacceptable” and refused to cooperate. Some European countries also criticized aid delivery via GHF. Israel claims that aid through the UN is being controlled by Hamas, but has not provided systematic evidence.
Humanitarian Crisis: Starvation Deaths on the Rise
Deaths from hunger in Gaza are increasing daily. UN officials say aid must flood into the region to prevent catastrophe. Under international law, Israel, as the occupying power, is responsible for protecting and feeding civilians.
But in practice — lives are being lost.
“All I want is for these centers to be shut down. They are death traps,” said Khawla, Maryam’s sister. “She went to get food for her children — and came back carried in people’s arms.”
