Chaos erupts as crowd overruns US-backed aid distribution centre in Gaza amid famine threat

Gaza Strip, May 28, 2025 — A desperate crowd overran a US-backed aid distribution centre in Gaza on Tuesday. The chaos highlights the worsening humanitarian crisis in the region. With famine threatening millions, the rush for food and supplies shows how fragile the situation is.

Aid Centre Overwhelmed by Desperate Crowd

The aid centre near Khan Younis became chaotic as thousands surged forward. People were driven by hunger and desperation. Eyewitnesses said the crowd pushed past security barriers and staff. Aid trucks arrived carrying flour, water, and other essentials. The crowd overwhelmed the distribution system quickly.

Videos on social media show people scrambling for aid packages. Some climbed on trucks. Others pushed and shoved to get supplies first. Aid workers retreated as they lost control. Many shipments were left vulnerable to looting.

Gaza’s Deepening Humanitarian Emergency

This chaos reveals the deepening crisis in Gaza. Over two million residents face severe shortages of food, water, and medicine. The United Nations has warned repeatedly of a looming famine. This is due to long-standing conflict, border closures, and economic collapse.

“The hunger here is worsening rapidly,” said Dr. Lina Mahmoud, a medical volunteer in Gaza. “More children show signs of malnutrition daily. Families skip meals or eat scraps. It is heartbreaking and unsustainable.”

The blockade, maintained by Israel and Egypt, restricts goods. Food and medical supplies are scarce. Hospitals and clinics struggle to operate. Aid agencies face obstacles reaching those in need.

US Support and Distribution Challenges

The aid centre is part of a US-led humanitarian effort. The United States says its aid is for civilians only. It is coordinated with international organizations.

However, conditions on the ground make distribution difficult. Security concerns and political tensions worsen the situation. Limited staff and resources hamper orderly management.

A USAID spokesperson said, “We condemn disruption to aid distribution. Our teams work with partners to improve processes. We remain committed to helping Gaza’s people.”

Voices of the People

Local residents expressed frustration and despair. Ahmad, a 35-year-old father, said, “We are starving. We wait hours in line. When trucks come, everyone rushes out of desperation. I fear for my children’s future.”

Fatima, a grandmother, added, “I haven’t had a full meal in days. The children cry from hunger. There is nothing I can do. This aid was our last hope.”

International Appeals and Calls for Action

Following the chaos, humanitarian groups called for a ceasefire. They want safe access to Gaza. The World Food Programme warns famine could start soon without food deliveries.

Martin Griffiths, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, said, “This tragedy reflects the emergency in Gaza. Civilians should never fight for food. All parties must respect humanitarian principles.”

Political and Security Barriers

Political and security issues block aid access. Israel tightly controls Gaza’s borders. It cites security concerns about weapons smuggling. Egypt’s Rafah crossing is partly open but cannot meet needs.

The US and others try to negotiate pauses in fighting. These aim to allow aid convoys to pass safely. But mistrust and violence block progress. Without a political solution, suffering will worsen.

The Human Toll

The crisis shows in the faces of Gaza’s people. Malnutrition among children rises. Doctors see more stunted growth and illness. Hospitals are overwhelmed with preventable diseases.

Aid groups warn that without urgent help, health problems will grow. Medical infrastructure is fragile. Hunger and conflict add to the trauma families face.

Looking Ahead

The chaos at the US-backed aid centre shows the urgent need for help. Aid agencies struggle to meet demand. Experts say a coordinated approach is essential.

This means involving political leaders, aid groups, and neighboring countries. Safe passage for food and medicine must be guaranteed. Without cooperation, Gaza faces hunger and instability.