The Israeli military confirmed on Friday that Israeli soldiers had opened fire on Palestinians approaching humanitarian aid distribution sites in Gaza, but denied that the shootings were carried out under direct orders from high command.
The admission came following a Thursday report by Haaretz, which alleged that Israeli troops were instructed to shoot at unarmed Palestinians near American-backed aid sites—even in the absence of an immediate threat.
Responding to the report, the Israeli military acknowledged that troops had fired what it claims are “warning shots” at Palestinians gathering near the aid distribution centers. However, it denied that the orders originated from the military's top leadership.
“In light of recent reports of harm to civilians approaching the distribution centers, the incidents are being examined by the relevant IDF authorities,” a military spokesperson told Israeli media, confirming that an internal investigation had been opened.
According to the report by Haaretz, and corroborated by humanitarian monitors, violence near aid distribution sites has intensified since May 27th, when the newly formed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) took over aid operations from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). The GHF is backed by both the U.S. and Israeli governments.
Since the GHF assumed control, at least 549 Palestinians have been killed and over 4,000 wounded near food distribution sites and UN truck convoys, according to Gaza-based health authorities and aid workers. The violence has disrupted humanitarian operations, with at least three instances where aid delivery was suspended or halted due to security concerns.
The GHF, chaired by American evangelical leader and former Trump administration official Johnnie Moore, receives logistical and financial support from the U.S. government. Moore has been a vocal supporter of Israel, previously stating that his faith is “inseparable” from the country.
Critics have raised concerns that the shift in control of aid operations—from a UN-based system to one led by American and Israeli-backed groups—may enable the politicization of food aid and give Israel leverage over the civilian population. Some analysts fear the tactic could be used to exert pressure on Palestinians to leave Gaza, aligning with past statements made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of the Trump administration expressing support for the long-term removal of Palestinians.