UN Council Debates Gaza Aid Corridors Amid Crisis

Humanitarian Crisis Intensifies in Gaza

The UN Security Council is urgently debating the creation of humanitarian corridors in Gaza as violence escalates and civilian casualties mount. Over 1.4 million Palestinians are currently displaced with severe shortages of food, water and medical supplies. The situation worsened after Israel imposed a complete blockade in March 2025, restricting essential commodities to pressure Hamas.

Controversial Aid Foundation Emerges

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), established in February 2025 with Israeli and U.S. backing, began operations in May amid controversy. UN agencies and over 170 NGOs including Oxfam and Save the Children accuse the GHF of creating dangerous distribution conditions that have led to mass casualties. Doctors Without Borders describes the situation as "slaughter masquerading as aid."

According to UN reports, 766 people died near GHF distribution sites by July 2025, with over 60% of all aid-seeker fatalities occurring at these locations. Witnesses attribute deaths to Israeli forces and U.S. contractors working with GHF.

Diplomatic Standoff at UN

During emergency sessions, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken proposed practical steps for aid delivery while supporting Israel's security needs. Russia countered with demands for an immediate ceasefire and independent investigations into potential war crimes. Arab nations, led by Jordan and Egypt, condemned the Security Council's inaction, with Egypt's Foreign Minister stating: "Silence is tantamount to giving blessings to these crimes."

Regional Escalation Fears

The conflict shows signs of spreading, with increased violence in the West Bank and exchanges of fire along Israel's northern border. UN Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland warned that "any miscalculation could have immeasurable consequences" across the region.

Path Forward

The European Union has tripled humanitarian assistance to over €75 million. UN Secretary-General António Guterres continues pushing for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, stating: "The grievances of Palestinians cannot justify Hamas' attacks, and those attacks cannot justify collective punishment." As diplomatic efforts continue, the Security Council remains divided on balancing Israel's security concerns with Gaza's humanitarian catastrophe.