UN human rights experts have issued a stern condemnation against the enforced disappearances of Palestinians, including children, at food aid distribution centers in Gaza. These centers, operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), have become zones of severe human rights violations amid reports of individuals being forcibly taken away while attempting to access basic sustenance.

The group of seven experts implored the Israeli authorities to cease these actions, which not only violate human rights but also intensify the dire food scarcity affecting the Palestinian population. The fear instilled by these disappearances may deter others from visiting aid points, further exacerbating the risk of starvation.

The experts expressed their dismay, stating, "Reports of enforced disappearances targeting starving civilians seeking their basic right to food is not only shocking, but amount to torture... We are particularly concerned that once again the Palestinian people have been targeted and punished as such, and in the most desperate moments of man-made starvation, denied the aid they are forced to rely on."

Despite its mission to distribute aid, the environment around GHF facilities has been perilous. According to a report from the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), from May 27 to July 31, there were 859 Palestinian deaths near these sites, with the majority attributed to actions by the Israeli Defense Force (IDF).

Adding to the grim scenario, Defense for Children International – Palestine (DCIP) has documented cases involving the disappearance of five boys at these aid points. Ayed Abu Eqtaish from DCIP highlighted the critical situation stating, “Israeli forces are shooting, detaining, and disappearing Palestinian children seeking aid in Gaza... forces have refused to disclose the numbers, names, and whereabouts of these children, who have had no contact with the outside world.”

The IDF has not provided information concerning the disappeared individuals, and GHF spokesman Chapin Fay has denied any casualties around the organization’s sites.

Amidst these troubling developments, a recent report by the UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has declared a man-made famine in Gaza. The report criticized the GHF, stating that its deliveries do not meet the criteria to be recognized as humanitarian assistance.

Enforced disappearances and the use of starvation as weapons of war are severe violations of international law, specifically under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, and may constitute crimes against humanity or war crimes.

This urgent issue has sparked renewed calls for a ceasefire and the implementation of safe and unhindered humanitarian access to alleviate the suffering of Gaza’s civilian population.