US-Backed Aid Group Begins Gaza Distribution Amid Controversy

US-Backed Aid Group Begins Gaza Distribution Amid Controversy

A new aid distribution effort, supported by the United States and Israel, has commenced operations in Gaza. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) announced that it has begun delivering food to what it calls "Secure Distribution Sites."

Controversial Initiative

The GHF's approach, which aims to bypass the United Nations as the primary aid provider to Gaza's 2.1 million residents, has drawn criticism. Aid organizations and the UN have expressed concerns that the GHF's methods contradict humanitarian principles.

Aid Delivery and Distribution

According to GHF, lorries of food have been delivered, and distribution to the Gazan people has started. However, the organization has not specified the exact locations or quantities of aid distributed.

Concerns and Criticisms

Critics argue that the GHF's system could exclude vulnerable populations, such as those with mobility issues, and make aid conditional on political or military objectives. The UN and other aid agencies maintain that they will not cooperate with any scheme that compromises fundamental humanitarian principles.

Leadership Change

John Acree, a former USAID senior manager, has been appointed interim executive director of GHF, succeeding Jake Wood, who resigned citing concerns about the group's adherence to humanitarian principles.

Hamas's Position

Hamas has cautioned Palestinians against cooperating with the GHF's system, alleging that it could lead to chaos and weaponize food distribution.