Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the creation of two humanitarian aid distribution centers in southern Gaza as part of Israel’s ongoing efforts to provide aid and maintain security measures simultaneously in this area. The two centers aim to replace an existing center located in Rafah’s Tel al-Sultan neighborhood bringing total distribution centers in Gaza up to five. The Jerusalem Post | Wikipedia | The Guardian | ynetnews According to the IDF, construction of these centers was coordinated with several stakeholders such as the United States administration and COGAT – an Israeli military unit responsible for overseeing civilian affairs in Palestinian territories. According to them, their purpose is to improve humanitarian aid distribution while providing safer access for civilians. ynetnews The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a U.S.-backed organization, is responsible for the distribution of food and supplies at these centers. Since aid resumption in May 2025, GHF has been operating in southern Gaza providing essential goods to its inhabitants; however, various humanitarian organizations and United Nations have voiced concerns over militarization of aid distribution as a potential means of further worsening humanitarian crisis. The Washington Post | Wikipedia | The Guardian. +7 The announcement of new aid centers comes amid ongoing military operations in Gaza City. The IDF has conducted airstrikes and ground operations there, leading to massive civilian displacement. According to United Nations reports, over 313 individuals have died of starvation-related causes since the start of conflict – including 119 children. Israel has strongly advised residents of northern Gaza to move south, where new aid centers are being established by the IDF. They have stated that these areas are safe and equipped to deal with the influx of displaced individuals; however, local authorities and humanitarian groups have raised questions over their capacity to accommodate large numbers of evacuees while meeting their basic needs in terms of aid provision. ynetnews/AP News +2 The Jerusalem Post As the situation in Gaza evolves, international attention remains fixed on humanitarian needs of its population and efforts to provide aid amid ongoing hostilities. Israel’s establishment of new aid centers represents a notable advancement in their approach to aid distribution; their effectiveness and impact will ultimately depend on factors like security conditions, coordination among aid organizations, and ability to address root causes of crisis.
