Rubio Condemns Hamas for Looting Humanitarian Aid in Gaza

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized Hamas after a disturbing video emerged, showing suspected operatives looting a humanitarian aid truck in Gaza. The incident occurred on October 20, 2023, in northern Khan Younis, where the truck was delivering essential supplies to civilians.

The footage, shared by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), depicts operatives attacking the driver, dragging him onto the road’s median, and fleeing with both the vehicle and its cargo. Rubio stated, “Hamas continues to deprive the people of Gaza of the humanitarian aid they desperately need.” He emphasized that this theft obstructs international efforts to provide assistance to civilians in the region.

According to CENTCOM, the aid truck was part of a humanitarian convoy organized by various international partners. This convoy aimed to deliver vital supplies amid ongoing conflict. The video was captured using a U.S. MQ-9 drone that was monitoring the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas at the time. The driver’s current status remains unknown, raising concerns over the safety of individuals involved in these aid efforts.

International Response and Coordination Efforts

Rubio further described Hamas as “the impediment,” accusing the group of hindering the flow of relief intended for civilians. He urged Hamas to cease its actions and “lay down their arms” to foster a brighter future for Gaza. The humanitarian aid, which is part of a concerted effort by nearly 40 nations and organizations, has been crucial in providing assistance to the people affected by the crisis.

CENTCOM reported that over the past week, international partners have delivered more than 600 trucks of commercial goods and aid into Gaza daily. This incident of looting undermines these collective humanitarian efforts, according to CENTCOM. The Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC), which opened on October 17, 2023, serves as a key hub for coordinating aid and stabilization efforts in Gaza.

The CMCC is located in southern Israel and is designed to monitor real-time developments in the region. Reports from the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) indicate that a significant portion of humanitarian aid entering Gaza has faced theft or looting within the territory, complicating relief efforts.

As the situation evolves, responding to the needs of Gaza’s civilians remains challenging. The international community continues to advocate for secure delivery of aid, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in alleviating the humanitarian crisis that has persisted in the region.