Israeli Envoy Blasts U.N.’s ‘Mafia-Like’ Moves Against U.S.-Backed Gaza Aid Group

UNITED NATIONS — In a fiery address to the U.N. Security Council, Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon unleashed a scathing critique, accusing the U.N. of employing mafia-style tactics to sabotage the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Danon alleged that the U.N. is strong-arming Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) through threats and intimidation to enforce a boycott against GHF, a new initiative aimed at delivering aid to Gaza’s war-torn population.

Danon didn’t mince words, describing the U.N.’s actions as a shakedown. He revealed that NGOs cooperating with GHF were abruptly removed from the U.N.’s critical aid database, which tracks deliveries into Gaza. “This is extortion of well-meaning NGOs that refuse to kiss the ring,” Danon declared, calling the move a betrayal of the U.N.’s own principles.

Meanwhile, Acting U.S. Alternate Representative John Kelley urged the U.N. to collaborate with GHF and Israel to create a functional aid system that ensures Hamas cannot exploit humanitarian efforts. Kelley emphasized a practical approach, pushing for solutions that prioritize Gaza’s civilians.

GHF, undeterred, announced the successful opening of another secure aid distribution site. The organization refuted claims of chaos, stating that no Palestinians were detained or harmed while receiving aid. Addressing reports of overcrowding, GHF explained that it briefly relaxed security protocols to manage desperate crowds safely, ensuring all food was distributed without incident. “We anticipated pressure due to acute hunger and Hamas-imposed blockades,” GHF noted, reaffirming its commitment to providing lifesaving aid despite challenges.

The international community, however, remains skeptical. U.N. Under-Secretary-General Tom Fletcher has openly criticized GHF, previously labeling it a fig leaf for violence. In a recent post on X, Fletcher insisted the U.N. is better equipped to handle aid distribution, boasting established networks and supplies ready to deliver massive amounts of aid in line with humanitarian principles.

As tensions simmer, Israel marked 600 days since the Oct. 7 massacre, with the Israel Defense Forces reporting that 121 U.N. aid trucks carrying food and supplies entered Gaza on Wednesday. The clash over GHF underscores a deeper struggle over control and credibility in addressing Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.