According to the UN Office for the Palestinian Territories, 859 of the recorded deaths occurred in proximity to GHF distribution sites, while another 514 took place along aid convoy routes. The GHF, a central actor in U.S.-Israeli aid efforts in Gaza, has faced mounting criticism for its operational structure and site placement, which many argue put civilians at risk.

Images released from the central Gaza Strip on August 1 showed Palestinians collecting supplies at GHF locations. These sites have become increasingly perilous as large crowds gather with limited security or logistical support, often within range of Israeli military patrols. Witnesses and rights groups have raised alarms about repeated use of live ammunition and crowd control measures by Israeli forces in these zones.

UN Blames Israeli Military For Majority Of Aid-Related Deaths

In its statement, the UN directly blamed the Israeli military for most of the killings, stating that it had recorded consistent patterns of lethal force used in the context of aid distribution. The agency stressed the urgent need for increased protection for civilians and unimpeded humanitarian access throughout Gaza.

The rising toll of those killed while merely seeking food has intensified scrutiny of current aid strategies and delivery mechanisms. Humanitarian organizations continue to call for independent oversight and for Israel to ease restrictions that complicate or delay the safe transport and distribution of aid.

The figures reflect the severe conditions still gripping Gaza nearly two years into Israel’s military campaign, with the humanitarian situation further deteriorating despite ongoing ceasefire and negotiation efforts.