Hamas steals humanitarian aid meant for civilians in Gaza

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has severely impacted humanitarian aid distribution amid continuous fighting. Since fighting escalated in March, reports have emerged indicating that armed Hamas militants are seizing shipments of aid delivered by the United Nations. Israeli military intelligence states that a significant number of United Nations employees are affiliated with Hamas, leading to widespread corruption in aid distribution. Gazans report that the aid is either redistributed among Hamas members or sold on the black market at exorbitant prices, leaving civilians struggling for basic necessities. With the collapse of a ceasefire in March, almost all aid distribution has come to a halt. Humanitarian organizations have found it increasingly challenging to operate safely as Hamas allegedly intimidates them in exchange for protection to facilitate their operations. There are claims of systematic aid diversion, with Hamas directing resources for their own benefit rather than the intended civilian recipients. This has prompted frustration among the local population who feel betrayed and neglected. As a result, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with civilians suffering the consequences of this conflict and the involvement of armed groups in the critical aid system.