In a recent development, the United States envoy, David Satterfield, has publicly criticized Israel for causing disruptions in the distribution of aid to Gaza. Israel's targeted killings of Gaza police commanders have made it challenging to safely deliver UN aid, with recent airstrikes in central Gaza resulting in the deaths of over 40 people, including children, and injuring at least 50 individuals.

Satterfield highlighted the departure of police escorts due to Israeli strikes, leading to criminal gangs targeting aid truck convoys, further exacerbating the lawlessness in the area. He emphasized the need for security escorts to resume deliveries and ensure the uninterrupted flow of much-needed aid.

The Biden administration envoy stated that while Israeli officials have not presented specific evidence of aid diversion or theft, they pointed out that Hamas may be utilizing alternative channels to control the distribution of assistance. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has been worsened by the ongoing conflict, displacing around 80% of the population and causing widespread destruction.

Amid allegations from Israel that Hamas is diverting aid entering Gaza, U.N. aid agencies have denied these claims. The situation is dire, with groups of children and teenagers in Rafah attempting to halt aid trucks and seize supplies upon entry.

Israel's air and ground offensive, triggered by a Hamas attack, has resulted in approximately 29,000 Palestinian casualties and a deteriorating humanitarian situation. The US is now working with the Israeli government to find solutions that will ensure the uninterrupted delivery of aid to Gaza and alleviate the suffering of its people.