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Us faces backlash over new Gaza aid foundation as un agency's role is sidelined
The United States has unveiled a new initiative aimed at coordinating humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza, a move that has sparked significant criticism from humanitarian organizations and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). This foundation, dubbed the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), comes at a time when the region grapples with dire humanitarian conditions exacerbated by ongoing conflict and a relentless blockade.
The announcement, made by the US State Department, indicates that the GHF will function as a charitable, non-governmental organization. Its primary goal is to facilitate secure aid deliveries while ensuring that supplies do not fall into the hands of Hamas or other factions. Notably, the foundation is expected to operate independently of the United Nations and is reportedly in discussions to be led by David Beasley, the former director of the UN World Food Programme.
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee emphasized that while Israel will not directly manage the distribution of aid, it will provide security for GHF operations. This arrangement raises concerns among critics, who argue that the involvement of private contractors to oversee distribution points could complicate aid accessibility for the Palestinian population.
The decision to circumvent established UN agencies, particularly UNRWA, has sent shockwaves through the humanitarian community. Juliette Touma, a spokesperson for UNRWA, asserted that effectively distributing aid without the agency's longstanding presence and infrastructure in Gaza would be nearly impossible. “It is very, very difficult to imagine any humanitarian operation without UNRWA,” she remarked, highlighting the agency’s critical role in delivering essential services to over 2.4 million Palestinians trapped under siege.
UNRWA, which has operated in Gaza for decades, provides vital support through schools, clinics, and food distribution programs, all while maintaining deep-rooted connections with local communities. The agency’s extensive network and experienced staff are integral to any humanitarian efforts in the enclave.
As the humanitarian crisis deepens, with reports of starvation affecting children and families, the US's strategy has drawn scrutiny. Critics, including former UNRWA spokesperson Chris Gunness, have labeled the initiative as an attempt to undermine UNRWA's authority and control the flow of aid for political purposes. Gunness described the effort as “aid-washing,” suggesting it obscures the reality of the situation in Gaza, where many face life-threatening conditions.
The UN's humanitarian agency has echoed these sentiments, condemning the plan as a possible weaponization of aid. Jens Laerke, a spokesperson for the agency, expressed alarm over the implications of sidelining established humanitarian operations.
Despite these significant concerns, US officials maintain that the new approach is essential for addressing the urgent needs of the Gazan population. Ambassador Huckabee argued that inaction could lead to further loss of life, stating, “The most significant danger is doing nothing. People are dying from hunger.”
As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes the well-being of those most affected by the ongoing crisis.
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