Gaza aid sites to reopen Sunday after closure over alleged Hamas threats
The US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation announced late Saturday that it will reopen two aid distribution sites in Rafah, southern Gaza, on Sunday after temporarily closing them due to what it described as "threats from Hamas to its staff."
In a post published in Arabic on its Facebook page, the Foundation warned Gaza residents not to approach the sites before they officially open at noon on Sunday. It cautioned that those who violate the instructions may not receive aid.
The announcement also stated that women seeking assistance must personally approach the aid workers to receive support.
Read more: US considers $500 million for controversial Gaza aid foundation: Sources
Since opening on May 26, the Foundation's distribution centers have seen massive crowds, underscoring the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where many are forced to walk long distances to carry heavy boxes of food.
The United Nations and aid organizations have criticized the distribution system, arguing that civilians should not be forced to cross military checkpoints to access basic necessities.
In contrast, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has criticized the UN for refusing to cooperate with what it called the only aid initiative allowed by the 'Israeli' military to operate on a wide scale.
On Saturday, the Foundation, which is backed by both the US and 'Israel', accused Hamas of making threats that prevented “hundreds of thousands of hungry people in Gaza” from receiving food.
A Hamas official, however, told Reuters he was unaware of any “alleged threats” from the movement.
