SOUTH HEBRON HILLS, West Bank (JTA) – A group of right-wing activists recently gathered to disrupt an aid shipment bound for Gaza, believing they were acting in the best interests of Israel by preventing supplies from reaching Hamas. However, their actions, which included damaging the aid supplies, have caused controversy and division among their supporters.
Tzav 9, the main group behind the blockade of aid shipments, distanced itself from the violent protest and announced a temporary pause in operations. Spokesperson Rachel Touitou condemned the violence, stating that it detracts from their cause and damages Israel’s international reputation.
Despite the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, Tzav 9 maintains that aid deliveries are being diverted to Hamas and are ultimately supporting terrorism. The group, which includes families of hostages held by Hamas, is supported by a majority of Jewish Israelis according to a recent poll.
The Israeli government has increased security at the Gaza border crossings to prevent further disruptions by Tzav 9, leading to more extreme actions by radical activists as seen in the recent clashes over aid shipments in the West Bank.
Standing Together, a Jewish-Arab group opposing Israel’s military actions in Gaza, confronted the right-wing activists on Sunday, ensuring the aid trucks reached their destination despite attempts to block them.
While some local politicians and activists support the blockade of aid to Gaza, others, like Standing Together, believe in the importance of humanitarian assistance and are committed to ensuring its delivery.
Despite disagreements among various groups, the aid trucks ultimately reached Gaza, providing much-needed supplies to those in need.
Activists on the left and right clashed over the aid trucks on Sunday, May 19. (Deborah Danan)
Despite the challenges faced by those advocating for or against the blockade of aid to Gaza, the delivery of humanitarian assistance remains a contentious issue with strong opinions on both sides.