Israeli sources reports that one of the checkpoints into the newly opened aid distribution center in the Gaza Strip failed to withstand the throngs of people. As the security personnel left their posts, large numbers of Gazans poured into the aid center, some of them surging onto the surrounding earthworks. IDF troops were dispatched to the scene and, according to the same sources, fired warning shots into the air to disperse the crowd.
Video: Gazans storm humanitarian aid center
An IDF unit was also sent to extract staff members of the American company operating in the area. Israel Hayom has learned that while the troops managed to evacuate part of the compound, the breach remained open and hundreds of Gazans continued to arrive. The site is staffed by employees from international aid organizations and armed private security contractors working for an American security firm.
Sources told Israel Hayom that the gunfire came from American personnel, and as of now, there is no confirmation that the IDF opened fire. They also reported that the compound has been evacuated and the checkpoint reinstated. At this time, it remains unclear whether aid distribution will resume today. Some supplies were reportedly looted, but the American security team managed to drive out the intruders and protect the aid organization workers.
A source familiar with the details said: "No IDF fire was opened at the aid center in Gaza, and there were no casualties in the incident. At present, the situation is under control."
Meanwhile, according to reports from Gaza, one of the intruders was seen stealing a pack of cigarettes. Additional reports mentioned the theft of parts of the fence and property belonging to the American security company.
Previous reports from Gaza indicated that residents broke into the compound near Rafah, prompting the American workers to flee. According to Palestinian sources, Israeli helicopters fired toward the area. Members of the terrorist organization Hamas claimed that the crowd stormed the packages that had been looted, and that the perimeter fence was breached by the masses.
