New study challenges narrative that Israel deliberately caused starvation in Gaza
A groundbreaking study has shed new light on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, challenging the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) investigation into starvation claims against Israel and revealing the Hamas terror organization’s role in controlling aid distribution. The study, titled “Food supplied to Gaza during seven months of the Hamas-Israel war,” was led by nutrition and public health experts Aron Troen and Ronit Endevelt, along with researchers from multiple Israeli universities and the Ministry of Health.
The research, based on data from Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), analyzed food shipments into Gaza from January to July 2024. The study tracked calorie intake, nutritional value, and humanitarian aid efforts, providing an objective, data-driven analysis of the food supplies delivered to Gaza during the conflict.
The findings of the study revealed that between January and April 2024, 14,916 trucks carrying 227,854 tons of food entered Gaza, averaging 124 food trucks per day. The daily per capita caloric supply averaged 3,374 kcal, with 101 grams of protein and 80.6 grams of fat – meeting or exceeding international humanitarian food aid standards.
Professor Ronit Endevelt emphasized that the study aimed to provide an accurate assessment of the nutritional supply entering Gaza, without getting involved in politics. The research team meticulously analyzed the data to ensure its credibility and avoid any exaggeration.
One of the key findings of the study was the distinction between food supply and distribution. The researchers highlighted that Hamas had weaponized food distribution, using it as a tool of control. Aid often did not reach those in need because Hamas seized supplies, sold them on the black market, or prioritized its own fighters. The study debunked claims of famine, attributing reports of hunger to Hamas’ deliberate strategy of restricting access to maintain power and profit.
Despite the study’s findings, the ICC investigation and global criticism against Israel continued. The ICC Office of the Prosecutor stated that its investigations are based on a wide range of sources, including international partners, civil society, and publicly available information. The Office emphasized the importance of confidentiality to protect the integrity of the investigations and ensure the safety of victims and witnesses.
The study’s publication faced challenges due to anti-Israel bias in parts of the scientific community. The research team opted to submit the study to the Israeli Journal of Health Policy Research, a peer-reviewed journal, to ensure its credibility. The rigorous review process involved multiple revisions to guarantee accuracy and transparency in evaluating humanitarian crises.
In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of improving aid distribution in Gaza to ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most. Effective cooperation between U.N. agencies, COGAT, and Palestinian civil society, without Hamas’ interference, is crucial in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The research provides valuable insights into the complexities of aid delivery in conflict zones and underscores the need for data-driven approaches to humanitarian assistance.
