Hamas Executes Looters Amid Gaza Food Crisis

Gaza’s Hamas-led government has executed several alleged looters as food shortages worsen under Israel’s prolonged blockade, Reuters reported. Armed gangs recently attacked food stores and aid kitchens, prompting Hamas to accuse some looters of collaborating with Israel. The group vowed to “strike with an iron fist,” deploying a 5,000-member security force to curb thefts.

Israel, which restricts aid citing Hamas’ diversion of supplies, has not commented on the accusations. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes killed 40 Palestinians in 24 hours, per Gaza’s health ministry. The blockade has squeezed civilians into coastal areas, with reports of gangs robbing residents of food, money, and phones.

UN officials warn of catastrophic humanitarian conditions since Israel’s offensive began after Hamas’ October 2023 attack. Protests over food shortages have erupted, testing Hamas’ control.