The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) began distributing food aid in Gaza on Monday, despite earlier reports suggesting the U.S.- and Israel-backed group had failed to launch operations. GHF shared photos of Gazans receiving food boxes at newly established distribution sites and promised additional deliveries in the coming days.
GHF condemned threats from Hamas against aid partners and efforts to block access to its sites, stating, “It is clear that Hamas is threatened by this new operating model.”
John Acree, a veteran humanitarian expert, was appointed interim executive director after the previous director resigned, citing Israeli restrictions.
While GHF aims to serve up to one million Palestinians, its model—relying on secure zones operated by private contractors—has drawn sharp criticism. The UN and several humanitarian groups have refused to cooperate, arguing the system violates humanitarian principles by limiting access and potentially forcing displacement.
Critics warn the aid could be used as a political tool, and some fear it excludes many in need. Only a few lesser-known groups, like Rahma Worldwide, have partnered with GHF so far.
Tensions escalated as Hamas reportedly executed four men accused of looting aid trucks. Aid organizations blame Israel’s blockade, in place since March 2, for creating desperate conditions and hampering safe distribution.
Israel defends its control over aid flow, accusing Hamas of diverting supplies for its own use. Meanwhile, Gaza’s health ministry reports over 53,000 deaths since the war began in October 2023, though these figures remain unverified.
