US envoy Steve Witkoff recently visited a key aid site in Gaza amid rising concerns about hunger and malnutrition. The visit comes as Gaza faces a severe humanitarian crisis, with many residents struggling to access food and basic supplies.
After the visit, US President Donald Trump spoke in Washington about the situation. He said Witkoff’s main mission was “getting the people fed” and acknowledged the worsening starvation in Gaza. This statement contrasts with recent claims from the Israeli government, which denied the existence of a humanitarian disaster.
Witkoff toured the Gaza Humanitarian Food (GHF) site in Rafah. The site is one of three aid centers operating under a new agreement but has experienced violence. Videos and eyewitnesses reported that Israeli forces opened fire near crowds at the aid locations. Some people also died in stampedes while rushing to collect limited food supplies.
The United Nations has distanced itself from the GHF program. It said the initiative compromises the neutrality of humanitarian aid and lacks proper coordination. The GHF was launched with Israeli support following accusations that some UN aid was diverted to Hamas.
Despite this, US Ambassador Huckabee defended the GHF program after the visit. He said it “delivers food to people without interference” and blamed Hamas for opposing the initiative because it bypasses their control.
Humanitarian groups and the UN warn that malnutrition in Gaza has reached critical levels. About 2.2 million people live in Gaza, many of whom urgently need food, medicine, and shelter.
Efforts to create a safe and coordinated humanitarian corridor have stalled. Aid agencies continue to call for international pressure to allow unimpeded access to Gaza’s vulnerable population.
The UN’s role remains vital in coordinating aid and addressing the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza.
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