TEL AVIV, May 28: The US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), approved by Israel, has begun distributing aid in Gaza, despite strong opposition from the UN and aid groups.
The GHF aims to replace the current UN-led aid distribution with a centralized hub system guarded by private contractors. Currently, four hubs are operating, all near Israeli military zones, raising concerns over accessibility and safety for Palestinians, particularly those in northern Gaza.
The initiative comes after Israel accused Hamas of diverting aid, though humanitarian organizations deny significant misuse. Critics argue the plan weaponizes aid, violates humanitarian principles, and could lead to forced displacement. GHF insists it is independent and impartial, though its executive director recently resigned over concerns about operational independence.
GHF’s plan involves using armoured vehicles and security personnel to deliver food to the hubs, aiming to serve up to 2 million people. However, aid groups say the system is inadequate, excludes non-food items, and risks worsening Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. The UN calls for the continuation of its established distribution system, which it claims has been effective when allowed to operate freely. (AP)
