This Video Does Not Depict Hamas Members Attacking Children During Aid Distribution in Gaza
The Claim
This is how Hamas distributes aid in Gaza.
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Emerging story
Recently, social media accounts and Hebrew websites have circulated a video claiming that it shows Hamas members attacking Palestinian children during aid distribution in Gaza.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar investigated the circulating claim and found it to be misleading. The video does not depict Hamas members attacking Palestinian children during aid distribution in Gaza. Instead, it was posted on social media accounts since July 11, 2024, and claims to show workers in Hussayni processions in Iraq mistreating children and making them stand in lines to receive food.
A search on Google Maps for the New Generation Mixed Primary School and the storefronts "Rukun Al-Qalaa" and "Caramel & Chocolate," featured in the video, shows that it was filmed on Al-Dora Street in the Al-Sahaa neighborhood of Baghdad, Iraq.
Hussayni Processions in Iraq
Hussayni processions are held to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein during Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, across various regions worldwide. These events feature religious, social, and cultural activities, including marches, gatherings, and the distribution of food and drink. This month, Baghdad and several other cities have hosted these processions and gatherings to mark Ashura, which is the 10th day of Muharram.
United Nations Reports: Israel Blocking Over Half of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza
The United Nations reported that Israel blocked over half of the aid intended for northern Gaza in June. U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said at a press conference that displaced people in Gaza are facing severe shortages of shelter materials and essential supplies. He also noted that distributing humanitarian aid through the Kerem Shalom border crossing is nearly impossible due to security concerns and fuel shortages.
96% of Gaza’s Population Facing Severe Food Insecurity Crisis
According to a report from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), over two million people (96%) in Gaza are experiencing severe food insecurity, with this situation expected to continue until September. The report also indicates that Gaza is currently in Phase 4, classified as an emergency by the IPC, just one step away from famine, which is Phase 5.
The report further notes that 22% of Gaza’s population (495,000 people) is facing catastrophic levels of food insecurity in Phase 5, where families are experiencing extreme food shortages, starvation, and a lack of means to cope. It warns that the risk of famine will persist in Gaza if the ongoing military conflict continues and aid access remains restricted.
Israeli Occupation Continues Its War on Gaza for 288th Consecutive Day
On July 20, the Palestinian Ministry of Health reported that the Israeli aggression, which began against the Gaza Strip 288 days ago, has resulted in 38,919 fatalities and 89,622 injuries.
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