The Aftermath of the Israel-Hamas War: Humanitarian Aid and Governance in Gaza

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) recently confirmed that approximately 70,000 Gazans were killed during the Israel-Hamas War, disputing claims made by the United Nations regarding civilian deaths and starvation. The IDF stated that no healthy individuals died from starvation, asserting that humanitarian aid efforts included the delivery of 112,000 aid trucks, which provided 1.7 million tons of food and 9,600 tons of medical supplies throughout the conflict. Despite these efforts, the IDF acknowledged a food insecurity crisis in mid-2025 but claimed they acted swiftly to mitigate starvation risks.

IDF says nearly 70,000 Gazans died in warQatar and US take charge in Gaza as IDF urges halt to Hamas aid, return to warIsrael says remains of last hostage recovered from Gaza, clearing way for phase-two of ceasefire with HamasPhase II ceasefire: IDF suggests 200 trucks for Gaza dailyIDF confirms searching for body of Ran Gvili at cemetery in northern Gaza Strip

As part of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, the IDF has recommended reducing the daily volume of humanitarian aid trucks entering Gaza from 600 to 200, arguing that this aligns with the Gazan population's needs. The IDF contends that excess aid is often appropriated by Hamas, which uses it to reinforce its control over the territory. Israeli officials have expressed concerns that the current aid strategy inadvertently allows Hamas to recover militarily while appearing to comply with humanitarian obligations.

Qatar and US take charge in Gaza as IDF urges halt to Hamas aid, return to warPhase II ceasefire: IDF suggests 200 trucks for Gaza dailyIsrael says remains of last hostage recovered from Gaza, clearing way for phase-two of ceasefire with HamasIDF says nearly 70,000 Gazans died in warGazans long for reopening of ‘lifeline’ Rafah crossing

The National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) has been established to oversee civilian affairs in the territory, with expectations that Hamas will maintain informal control behind the scenes. The IDF predicts that the NCAG will take time to stabilize and replace lower-level officials affiliated with Hamas. This governance structure aims to create a semblance of civilian administration while allowing Hamas to focus on its military objectives.

Phase II ceasefire: IDF suggests 200 trucks for Gaza daily

The recent recovery of the remains of Ran Gvili, the last hostage held by Hamas, has marked a significant moment in the ongoing ceasefire negotiations. Gvili's remains were found in a cemetery in northern Gaza, following a large-scale IDF operation. His family had insisted that no further phases of the ceasefire should proceed until his remains were returned. The IDF's efforts to recover Gvili's body have been framed as a commitment to bringing all hostages home, contrasting with Hamas's claims of compliance with ceasefire terms.

Israel says remains of last hostage recovered from Gaza, clearing way for phase-two of ceasefire with HamasThe IDF Brought Ran Gvili Home and the Media Handed Hamas the CreditIDF confirms searching for body of Ran Gvili at cemetery in northern Gaza StripQatar and US take charge in Gaza as IDF urges halt to Hamas aid, return to warPhase II ceasefire: IDF suggests 200 trucks for Gaza daily

Critics argue that the IDF's humanitarian aid strategy has inadvertently bolstered Hamas's position, allowing the group to recover and maintain its military capabilities. Senior Israeli defense officials have expressed concerns about the lack of a proactive strategy to counter Hamas's influence in Gaza. Additionally, there are fears that international aid efforts may inadvertently support Hamas's governance, complicating the situation further.

Qatar and US take charge in Gaza as IDF urges halt to Hamas aid, return to war

As the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt is expected to reopen, residents are hopeful for reunification with family and improved access to essential services. The NCAG will be responsible for managing travel and aid distribution, but concerns remain about Hamas's potential control over these processes. The future governance structure in Gaza will be closely monitored, as the international community seeks to ensure that aid does not empower Hamas militarily.

Qatar and US take charge in Gaza as IDF urges halt to Hamas aid, return to war

Discrepancies exist regarding casualty figures, with the Gaza Ministry of Health reporting over 71,000 deaths, a number that Israel disputes. The UN has not independently verified these figures, leading to ongoing debates about the humanitarian impact of the conflict. Additionally, the IDF's claims about the effectiveness of its humanitarian efforts are contested by various humanitarian organizations.

IDF says nearly 70,000 Gazans died in war

• “We are in a war; even if a thousand are killed by friendly fire, that’s the price of war,” — Akram al-Ajouri, Palestinian Islamic Jihad Official

Pre-Oct. 7 Hamas memo quotes top Islamic Jihad official calling Gazans killed by misfired rockets ‘price of war’

• “The State of Israel is determined to return Ran Gvili, of blessed memory, for a proper Jewish burial,” — Prime Minister’s Office, Israel

IDF confirms searching for body of Ran Gvili at cemetery in northern Gaza Strip

• “Opening the Rafah crossing means opening the door to life for me.” — Mahmud al-Natour, Gaza Resident

Gazans long for reopening of ‘lifeline’ Rafah crossing