Gaza aid group disputes claims of IDF killing civilians

On June 1, 2025, in Gaza, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) issued a statement refuting media reports alleging that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shot at civilians during aid distribution efforts in the Tel al-Sultan area of Rafah. Reports from various Palestinian sources claimed that at least 31 individuals had died and many others were injured due to IDF fire. However, the GHF released video evidence demonstrating that aid distribution occurred without interruption during the alleged attacks, which undermined the credibility of the reports circulated by outlets like the BBC and CNN. The GHF, which operates with backing from the United States in collaboration with Israel's military, reported that it had successfully distributed 4.6 million meals over a span of just six days. They also expressed concerns over looting incidents that hindered the distribution of aid to those in need. In response to the negative press, GHF conveyed that all aid had been distributed without any incidents leading to injuries or fatalities. The allegations were attributed to Hamas, which the GHF characterized as fabrications aimed at stirring unrest and discrediting their humanitarian efforts. To expand their operations, GHF announced the opening of its third distribution site in central Gaza, located in Khan Younis, as part of its commitment to ensuring that aid reaches vulnerable populations in a timely manner. This initiative follows ongoing criticism regarding the number of distribution centers available for the affected population. Despite these criticisms, GHF emphasized the scale-up of their operations to cater to a growing need for humanitarian assistance amidst the ongoing conflict in the region.