Israeli Airstrike on US-Backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation Kills 26 in Rafah

An Israeli air raid hit a Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) aid compound in Rafah, killing at least 26, as reported by Palestinian and Hamas-linked media report. The GHF is supported by the US and Israel and opened recently to alleviate Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.

Although Israel has not responded to the attack, the strike revived concerns about aid neutrality, security procedures, and the nature of war. As Gaza struggles through deteriorating conditions, the GHF’s operation becomes increasingly contentious.

GHF Activities Under Scrutiny

The GHF started operations in Gaza only days ago. It was supposed to coordinate aid with US and Israeli support. Delivery of aid was accompanied by tight biometric screening and vetting. Israeli authorities justified this as preventing Hamas-affiliated individuals from receiving goods.

However, several Palestinians doubted the neutrality of the GHF. Some believed Israel might exploit gathered information or dominate access to food. Critics argued the organization defied aid rules. On May 28, Hamas blamed Israel for killing three and wounding 46 in the area around another GHF location. GHF denied the accusation. The Israeli military claimed it shot only warning shots as mobs swelled.

Rafah Strike Deepens Crisis

The most recent airstrike, which was reported by Hamas-affiliated media, struck a GHF aid station in Rafah. A minimum of 26 people were killed. Thousands were waiting to be given food. Israel has made no comment. The attack contributes to the region’s deteriorating humanitarian breakdown.

UN officials refer to Gaza’s crisis as the worst so far since the war started 19 months ago. Food is still in short supply. Aid groups are finding it hard to operate. The GHF is one of the last remaining pipelines. But now its role is questioned.

Aid, Trust, and Accountability

Israel insists it screens aid to keep Hamas from diverting it. Hamas denies stealing supplies and claims it punishes looters. Meanwhile, global agencies say aid access remains far too low. They also distrust the GHF, seeing it as non-neutral.

With more than 54,000 Palestinians killed since October 2023, any attack on aid delivery puts the pressure on. If Israel verifies the Rafah attack, it will surely exacerbate more anger. Aid distribution in Gaza needs to restore confidence—and quickly.