The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation faces calls for shutdown by over 130 organizations, citing severe violence against aid-seeking Palestinians and a failure to uphold humanitarian standards.
Over 130 NGOs Demand Closure of Controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation
Over 130 NGOs Demand Closure of Controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation
Major charities urge action as violence escalates in aid distribution amidst Gaza's humanitarian crisis.
More than 130 charities and non-profit organizations are calling for the immediate closure of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), an initiative supported by Israel and the United States. Since its inception in late May, following a prolonged blockade of Gaza by Israel, over 500 Palestinians have died while trying to access vital aid, with nearly 4,000 others reportedly injured. Prominent groups such as Oxfam, Save the Children, and Amnesty International criticize the GHF for allegedly exposing aid seekers to gunfire from both Israeli forces and armed groups.
The Israeli military, however, disputes these claims, arguing that there is no deliberate targeting of civilians at aid sites, and contends that the GHF is crucial for providing assistance directly to those in need without interference from Hamas.
In a united statement, the charities highlighted the dangerous conditions faced by two million Gazans, forced into densely populated and militarized zones where they confront regular gunfire. The GHF replaced 400 aid distribution points, previously established during a temporary ceasefire, with merely four military-controlled locations. This operational shift has reportedly resulted in numerous casualties among those attempting to secure essentials for survival, including children and caregivers.
UN agencies have voiced strong condemnation of the GHF's operations, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres labeling the strategy "inherently unsafe." The UN has raised concerns that the GHF risks militarizing aid, disrupting established distribution networks, and compelling vulnerable populations to traverse perilous terrain for food.
Reports from the Israeli media indicate claims by unverified soldiers from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) suggesting orders to disperse unarmed civilians at GHF sites, though these statements have been vehemently denied by Israeli leadership, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Despite claims of operational adjustments meant to improve access and safety at aid distribution centers, the coalition of over 130 organizations asserts that the GHF is failing to provide a genuine humanitarian response amidst dire food shortages and escalating violence. Families have reported being too weak to compete for crucial food rations. As conditions deteriorate, the situation in Gaza remains increasingly perilous for those reliant on aid.
