Former Contractor Alleges War Crimes at Gaza Aid Sites
A former contractor for the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) has made serious allegations regarding the conditions and practices at aid distribution sites in Gaza. Anthony Aguilar, a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel, claims that these sites have turned into “death traps” for civilians seeking assistance. His accusations come at a time when the death toll in Gaza has reportedly surpassed 60,000, with many viewing the official count as significantly underestimated.
Aguilar, who worked as a security contractor for UG Solutions, stated in an interview that he witnessed indiscriminate violence directed at unarmed Palestinians waiting for aid. “What I witnessed in Gaza, I can only describe as a dystopian, post-apocalyptic wasteland,” Aguilar shared. He described the U.S. and Israeli involvement in the situation as complicity in “atrocities and genocide” occurring in the region.
The GHF has faced scrutiny as it replaces the United Nations’ role in aid delivery. A letter signed by at least 21 U.S. senators, led by Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen, has urged the U.S. government to reconsider funding for GHF, citing concerns over the safety and effectiveness of the aid distribution process. Senator Van Hollen emphasized that these sites have been transformed into “death traps” rather than safe havens for those in need.
Aguilar’s claims highlight the troubling design of the aid sites, which he argues were intentionally located in active combat zones. He detailed his experiences at various distribution locations, stating that they were surrounded by razor wire—a measure prohibited under international humanitarian law. He condemned the use of such hazardous materials, asserting that they were meant to restrict access and control civilians seeking assistance.
The former contractor further criticized the equipment provided to armed personnel at the sites, including fully automatic weapons and specialized ammunition designed for penetrating armor. He argued that such a military approach to humanitarian aid is not only inappropriate but represents a violation of international law. According to Aguilar, the presence of armed contractors in Gaza under tourist visas raises additional legal and ethical concerns.
The GHF has responded to Aguilar’s testimony by questioning his credibility. They accused him of fabricating claims and suggested that he was dismissed from his position due to inappropriate behavior. Aguilar, however, maintains that he resigned after witnessing what he deemed unethical practices, and he insists on the authenticity of the videos he recorded, which allegedly show armed contractors opening fire on civilians.
In his statements, Aguilar emphasized the need for the U.S. to reassess its role in the conflict and to prioritize humanitarian efforts that truly address the needs of the Palestinian people. He criticized the GHF’s management of aid, noting that their reported delivery of 92 million meals falls drastically short of what is necessary for a population of over 2 million people.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, the testimony of individuals like Aguilar raises critical questions about the effectiveness and morality of current aid operations. With international calls for accountability growing, the future of humanitarian assistance in the region remains uncertain. Aguilar’s account serves as a stark reminder of the complex realities on the ground and the urgent need for effective and humane solutions.
