The UN claims the majority of flour provided to Gaza is either stolen or consumed by famished people

The United Nations said Monday that since Israel relaxed its assistance blockade three weeks ago, it has only been able to deliver a little amount of wheat into Gaza, and that most of that has been stolen by armed gangs or seized by starving Palestinians.

Deputy U.N. spokesperson Fahan Haq told reporters that the group had brought 4,600 metric tons of wheat flour into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing, which is the only point of entry Israel permits them to use.

An estimated 8,000 to 10,000 metric tonnes of wheat flour are required, according to Haq, by relief organizations in Gaza to provide a bag of flour to every family in the territory and “ease the pressure on markets and reduce desperation.”

“The majority of it was stolen by famine-stricken, desperate individuals before the goods arrived at their destinations. “In certain instances, armed gangs looted the supplies,” Haq stated.

The World Food Programme estimates that, assuming a daily ration of 300 grams per person, 4,600 metric tonnes of flour would give Gaza’s 2 million inhabitants about eight days’ supply of bread.
Haq urged Israel to open more gates and corridors for the entry of much more aid.

Since Israel removed the 11-week siege in mid-May, the U.N. has primarily sent flour along with a few small amounts of nourishment and medical supplies. Experts warn that the rate of acute malnutrition in young children has nearly tripled, putting Gaza at risk of famine.

The United Nations, which has questioned its impartiality and accused the distribution model of militarizing aid and pushing displacement, has rejected Israel’s and the United States’ request for the organization to work through the contentious new Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

Hamas has denied Israeli and American accusations that it stole aid from the U.N.-led operations.

Private U.S. logistical and security companies run the GHF. It started working in Gaza on May 26 and reported on Monday that it has distributed 11.4 million meals to date.

assistance must be picked up by the United Nations and assistance organizations already in Gaza after Israel forces them to discharge it on the Palestinian side of the Kerem Shalom border. Israel is accused by the U.N. of routinely refusing requests for access.