Fact Check: US-backed aid operation in Gaza is reportedly causing fatalities.

Fact Check: "US-backed aid operation in Gaza is reportedly causing fatalities."

What We Know

Recent reports indicate that a U.S.-backed aid operation in Gaza has been linked to a series of fatalities among Palestinians. Over the past month, the Gaza Health Ministry has reported that hundreds of Palestinians have been killed near aid distribution points established under this new system, which is operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) and guarded by Israeli troops (BBC, NYT). Specifically, incidents have been reported where 31 Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire on a Sunday, followed by additional fatalities in subsequent days (BBC). The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has characterized the operation as "inherently unsafe," stating that it is "killing people" (Reuters).

Analysis

The evidence surrounding the claim that the U.S.-backed aid operation is causing fatalities is substantial. Reports from various credible sources, including the BBC and the New York Times, corroborate the occurrence of multiple deadly incidents near the aid distribution sites. The GHF's operations have been criticized by humanitarian organizations, which describe the new aid distribution hubs as "death traps" for Gazans (CBS News).

The Israeli military has denied allegations that its forces fired upon civilians near these sites, stating that any gunfire was directed at "suspects" approaching their positions (BBC). However, eyewitness accounts and reports from organizations like the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) indicate that many casualties have resulted from gunfire in these areas. For instance, the ICRC reported treating 184 patients after one incident, with a significant number suffering from gunshot wounds (BBC).

While the GHF claims that there were no incidents during their operations, this assertion is contradicted by multiple independent reports and eyewitness testimonies, raising questions about the organization's reliability and transparency. The ongoing conflict and the chaotic nature of the situation in Gaza make it challenging to verify all claims definitively, but the consistency of reports from various credible sources lends weight to the assertion that the aid operation is indeed linked to fatalities.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that the U.S.-backed aid operation in Gaza is reportedly causing fatalities is supported by credible evidence from multiple sources. Reports of deaths near the aid distribution sites, combined with statements from humanitarian organizations and eyewitness accounts, confirm that the operation has resulted in significant loss of life. The situation is exacerbated by the operational challenges and the controversial nature of the aid distribution system, which has been criticized for its safety and effectiveness.

Fact Check: US-backed aid operation in Gaza is reportedly causing fatalities.