Colonel Abdullah Halabi, head of the Coordination and Liaison Administration for Gaza within Israel’s COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories), spoke to reporters at the Kerem Shalom Crossing — a key entry point for humanitarian aid into Gaza.
According to Col. Halabi, over 1,000 trucks full of food, medicine, and emergency supplies are currently stuck inside Gaza, undelivered. The reason, he said, is not Israel, but a lack of action by the United Nations and other aid organizations who are responsible for collecting and distributing the aid once it enters the Strip.
“We have opened the way. The aid is here. But it’s not moving because of poor coordination and delays by international groups,” Col. Halabi said. “We have seen small signs of improvement recently, but it’s not enough. The people of Gaza need help, and we are doing our part. Now the world needs to do theirs.”
Hamas Exploits Crisis for Political Gain
Col. Halabi also strongly rejected Hamas’s claims of famine, calling it a “narrative” used to gain leverage in hostage negotiations.
“Let’s be clear: Hamas is using hunger as a weapon — not against us, but against their own people,” he said. “They are trying to create international pressure by spreading panic, while refusing to release hostages or allow proper aid distribution inside the Strip.”
Israel Continues Humanitarian Efforts Despite War
Israel has kept humanitarian crossings open and coordinated thousands of aid deliveries, even during active conflict. This includes food, clean water, medical supplies, and fuel. Israel has also called on UN agencies to step up and take responsibility for their role in the aid chain.
“We invited the UN here, as we have done many times, to walk through the process and fix what is broken,” Col. Halabi said. “Our mission is clear: protect our people and help the innocent civilians in Gaza. We will not abandon that mission, even when Hamas tries to manipulate it.”
IsraelDaily.net joins the call for the international community to stop turning a blind eye. The truth is simple: Israel is delivering aid — Hamas and weak global systems are stopping it. It’s time for facts, not false headlines. It's time to stand on the right side of humanity.