The IDF announces that two of four recently established aid distribution sites in the Gaza Strip

The IDF announces that two of four recently established aid distribution sites in the Gaza Strip began operations today, delivering food packages to thousands of Palestinian families.

The aid sites are being operated by a private American security company, while the IDF secures the surrounding area.

Three of the distribution sites are located in the Tel Sultan area of southern Gaza's Rafah, while the fourth is in the Netzarim Corridor area, south of Gaza City. The two sites that began operations today are in Rafah.

"The establishment of the distribution centers took place over the last few months, facilitated by the Israeli political echelon and in coordination with the US government," the IDF says in its first official comment on the aid sites.

"This process coincided with an ongoing dialogue and cooperation with the IDF, through the Southern Command and COGAT, as well as international aid organizations, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation and the American civilian security company," it says.

The IDF says it will "continue to facilitate humanitarian assistance in the Gaza Strip, while making every possible effort to ensure that the aid does not reach the hands of the Hamas terrorist organization."