A contentious humanitarian group, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), with backing from the US and Israel, has initiated aid distribution efforts in Gaza. The organization reported that it has delivered truckloads of food to designated secure sites and has commenced distribution, though specific details regarding the volume of aid and recipient information have not been disclosed.
GHF is aiming to circumvent the United Nations’ established aid operation, with the backdrop of a dire humanitarian situation after an 11-week Israeli blockade has left many in Gaza at risk of famine. The group employs armed US security contractors for protection, while the UN and other aid organizations criticize GHF for allegedly compromising humanitarian principles and attempting to “weaponize aid.” Israel justifies this new approach by claiming it prevents Hamas from appropriating humanitarian assistance.
In a recent statement, GHF confirmed the launch of their operations and stated intentions to increase aid flow in the days to come. The former USAID executive John Acree has been appointed interim executive director, following the resignation of Jake Wood, who criticized GHF’s approach as incompatible with core humanitarian values.
While GHF asserts its methods are aligned with humanitarian goals, critics argue that its strategy may exclude vulnerable populations and set precarious precedents for global aid procedures. As the situation unfolds, Hamas has cautioned the Palestinian community against collaborating with GHF, framing it as a potential tool for political manipulation amid the ongoing conflict.
Source: www.bbc.com
