The head of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), Johnnie Moore, has responded to growing scrutiny over the organization’s aid operations, which have been linked to numerous casualties among Palestinians attempting to access assistance. In an interview with the BBC, Moore acknowledged the occurrence of deaths near the aid sites but argued that attributing all casualties solely to the GHF is inaccurate.
Moore accused the United Nations and other international entities of disseminating unverified claims regarding the safety of the GHF’s operations. This criticism intensified in light of statements from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who labeled the aid system “inherently unsafe,” emphasizing that acquiring food should not endanger lives.
According to the Hamas-run health ministry, over 500 Palestinians have reportedly died while seeking aid since GHF’s involvement began. Eyewitnesses have recounted incidents of Israeli forces firing on crowds near distribution sites, a claim denied by Israeli officials. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) insisted they do not instruct their troops to target unarmed civilians.
While Moore refuted claims that the GHF sites are the direct cause of the violence, he also admitted the operational challenges the organization faces in delivering sufficient aid. The GHF aspires to provide 50 million meals in Gaza—though experts indicate the aid remains far from adequate amidst ongoing shortages and a looming humanitarian crisis.
“Our objective is clear: we aim to support the Gazan people by delivering essential aid,” he stated, underlining the need for collaboration with established organizations like the UN.
Source: www.bbc.com
