Daijiworld Media Network- Gaza
Gaza, May 15: Satellite images have revealed that Israel is preparing multiple sites within Gaza to serve as distribution centres for humanitarian aid under a contentious new plan backed by the US. This comes amid a blockade imposed by Israel since March, which has suspended the flow of food, medicine, and fuel into Gaza, drawing widespread condemnation from the United Nations, European, and Middle Eastern leaders.
According to reports, the Israeli government’s move aims to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages held in Gaza. However, the UN has raised alarm over the severe shortages caused by the blockade, warning that Gaza’s 2.1 million residents face a “critical risk” of famine.
The US has confirmed plans to launch a new aid delivery system operated by private firms, guarded by security contractors and Israeli forces, through a handful of secured hubs inside Gaza. Satellite imagery analysed by BBC Verify shows extensive land clearance, new roads, and staging areas under construction at several locations in southern and central Gaza over recent weeks.
Humanitarian sources privy to Israeli officials’ briefings indicate at least four such centres will be established in southern Gaza, with one additional site near the Netzarim Corridor — a military-controlled area dividing the territory.
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, supporting the plan, initially announced that aid including food, water, and hygiene kits would reach about 1.2 million people — less than 60% of Gaza’s population. The organisation stated operations would begin by the end of May and urged Israel to allow aid through traditional channels until the new hubs are fully functional. It also called for additional centres in northern Gaza, which the original plan does not include.
UN agencies have strongly opposed the initiative, stating they will not cooperate as it undermines core humanitarian principles. Olga Cherevko, spokesperson for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), accused Israel of using “food and fuel as leverage, as part of a military strategy.” She added that channeling aid through “a handful of militarised hubs” would leave large parts of Gaza — particularly vulnerable groups unable to move freely — cut off from essential assistance.
Oxfam’s Bushra Khalidi called the plan a “farce,” insisting that no logistical solution can justify what she termed Israel’s strategy of forced displacement and starvation as a weapon of war. She appealed to lift the siege and reopen crossings to enable unhindered humanitarian work.
While Israel has not publicly disclosed the locations of the hubs, satellite photos show significant development, including defensive berms and lighting installations, near the Egypt-Gaza border and close to Israel Defense Forces (IDF) bases. Analysts suggest the sites are designed for secure and controlled aid distribution, featuring separate truck and pedestrian entrances.
The IDF declined to comment on the hubs but stated its Gaza operations adhere to international law. The Israeli government has yet to give final approval for the aid distribution system.
As global attention intensifies on the Gaza humanitarian crisis, the outcomes of ongoing discussions and international pressure may critically shape the region’s future.