As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, Israel is reportedly shifting its approach to aid distribution in the region. According to a letter obtained by the Associated Press, Israel may allow existing aid groups to manage non-food assistance while a new U.S.-backed organization takes over food distribution.
This change comes amid growing pressure to increase aid to Gaza, where 2.3 million Palestinians are facing severe shortages of food, medicine, and other essential supplies. For nearly three months, Israel had blocked these supplies from entering the territory, leading to warnings of a potential famine. The United Nations and various aid organizations have expressed concern over Israel’s previous plans to control all aid distribution, arguing that it could violate humanitarian principles and worsen the situation.
The letter, dated May 22, is from Jake Wood, head of the Israel-approved Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), and is addressed to COGAT, the Israeli military agency responsible for aid transfers. It states that Israel and GHF have reached an agreement allowing non-food humanitarian aid—such as medical supplies and hygiene items—to be distributed under the existing United Nations-led system. However, the GHF will still oversee food distribution, with a planned overlap period for aid organizations.
Aid groups have raised alarms about the GHF’s ability to manage food distribution effectively. They worry that the new system could force many Palestinians to travel to distribution hubs, displacing them from their homes. Additionally, there are concerns about the GHF’s funding and operational capacity, as it claims to have over $100 million in commitments but has not disclosed the source of these funds.
The GHF is not yet operational in Gaza and is led by individuals with backgrounds in security and military, which raises questions about its neutrality. Critics argue that Israel’s involvement in aid distribution could undermine the independence of humanitarian efforts.
During a recent call with leaders from several aid organizations, including Save the Children and Mercy Corps, there was a consensus that while non-food assistance should continue under the current system, food aid must be delivered without obstruction. The situation remains fluid, and many are watching closely to see how these new arrangements will unfold.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalated after Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in significant casualties and a large-scale Israeli military response. As the conflict continues, the need for effective and impartial aid delivery has never been more urgent.