US-Backed Aid Group Launches Food Distribution in Gaza Amid Controversy

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a U.S.-backed initiative with Israel’s approval, has begun distributing food aid across the war-torn Gaza Strip, navigating a storm of controversy. The organization announced that supplies have reached its distribution hubs, with more trucks expected to arrive midweek. While the exact number of trucks remains undisclosed, GHF’s efforts aim to provide direct relief to thousands of Gazans daily.

A Bold Move Amid Scrutiny
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) emphasized that four aid distribution centers were recently established under U.S. coordination to streamline humanitarian efforts. 'This is about getting aid directly to the people, bypassing Hamas’s grip on supplies,' IDF spokesperson Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani stated, highlighting hopes that the initiative will curb reported abuses of aid by Hamas.

However, GHF’s launch was overshadowed by the abrupt resignation of its executive director, Jake Woods, just hours before distribution began. Citing concerns over the group’s adherence to humanitarian principles—humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence—Woods stepped down, urging Israel to expand aid access and calling for a ceasefire, hostage release, and a path to peace. His exit amplified existing criticisms, particularly over GHF’s reliance on armed contractors to guard hubs, some located near Israeli military positions in less populated southern areas of Gaza.

International Backlash and Doubts
The United Nations and other aid groups have questioned GHF’s independence, with the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs dismissing the initiative as 'a distraction' from the urgent need for unrestricted aid access across Gaza. Despite the criticism, GHF insists its operations will scale up daily, aiming to address the region’s dire humanitarian crisis.

As Gaza grapples with ongoing conflict, the success of GHF’s mission hangs in a delicate balance, raising questions about whether this new approach can deliver meaningful relief or if it will become mired in the region’s complex political landscape.