Despite international narratives painting Israel as the primary cause of Gaza’s humanitarian crisis,
facts on the ground suggest a more complex—and damning—reality. While the region suffers immense hardship, much of the civilian suffering can be directly traced to Hamas’ systematic exploitation of humanitarian aid and obstruction of relief efforts. The latest operational update from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), dated June 1, 2025, underscores this deeply troubling truth.
GHF, one of the only organisations currently able to deliver aid securely within Gaza, has distributed over 4.7 million meals in just six days. Its operations, centred at sites like Tal Sultan (SDS1), are coordinated, controlled, and—most critically—safe. According to GHF’s Interim Executive Director John Acree, “not a single casualty” has occurred despite “massive, desperate crowds.” This level of efficiency and safety not only exposes the possibility of humanitarian aid reaching civilians but also highlights the dangers posed when that aid is manipulated or obstructed.
And manipulation is precisely what Hamas stands accused of. Reports from both Israeli military intelligence and independent observers consistently show that Hamas diverts humanitarian resources—including food and medical supplies—for its fighters. More alarmingly, supplies often make their way into Hamas-run black markets, sold to desperate civilians at inflated prices. The tunnels Hamas built under schools and hospitals, using resources meant for public welfare, are perhaps the most grotesque manifestation of this exploitation.
Even as Israel eased some restrictions under U.S. diplomatic pressure to facilitate aid, the problem remains Hamas’ stranglehold over distribution. GHF’s operations show that assistance can be delivered without incident when handled transparently and responsibly. Yet GHF continues to report that “other humanitarian groups are being looted before reaching those in need,” revealing a pattern of sabotage and obstruction.
There is also a deliberate campaign of misinformation. According to GHF, Hamas is actively “fomenting rumours” of deaths and injuries during aid distributions—claims the organisation has categorically denied. “We continue to see false reporting about deaths, mass injuries and chaos…from major news outlets who are relying on unverified and unsubstantiated reports,” the update notes. This disinformation not only erodes public trust but also serves Hamas’ strategic interest in weaponising human suffering to manipulate international opinion.
Hamas’ use of “starvation as a political tool” also contradicts the narrative that humanitarian restrictions alone are causing the crisis. Instead, the obstruction of aid flows, the hoarding of resources, and the orchestration of chaos all point to a disturbing pattern: Hamas benefits from civilian suffering, both to rally support and to delegitimise its adversaries. This political calculus comes at the direct cost of the people of Gaza.
While GHF’s efforts offer a glimpse of hope, demonstrating that secure, dignified aid distribution is possible, they also highlight the urgent need for more robust international collaboration. Acree’s appeal to humanitarian actors is clear: “The need is urgent. The window is narrow. Collaboration is no longer optional.” Without a collective effort to counter Hamas’ exploitation and to reinforce transparent aid delivery, the humanitarian situation in Gaza will remain dire, no matter how much aid is sent.
The path forward must begin with clear-eyed realism about the root causes of the crisis. Holding Hamas accountable for its obstruction, ensuring that aid reaches those who genuinely need it, and confronting disinformation head-on are all necessary steps. Only then can the world move beyond rhetoric and begin to make a real difference in the lives of Gaza’s civilians.
