US-Backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation Transitions Aid Operations

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), supported by the US, announced on Monday that it would be shifting its operations to other aid organizations. This comes after successfully delivering over 187 million free meals to the people in the Gaza Strip, all while ensuring that the aid wasn’t seized by Hamas.

Launched on May 26, GHF aimed to provide food access to Gaza residents and curb the looting of supplies by Hamas. According to the foundation, more than 1.1 million packets of ready-to-use supplementary food were given to malnourished children.

John Ackley, the Executive Director of GHF, stated, “From the beginning, GHF’s ​​goal has been to respond to urgent needs and demonstrate that innovative methods can succeed where traditional approaches have struggled.” He highlighted their collaboration with the Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) and the broader international humanitarian community, expressing optimism about the future.

Ackley elaborated, mentioning that the foundation has been in talks with CMCC and international entities about its next steps, confirming that they would be scaling back operations now that they’ve demonstrated a successful aid delivery model. “Our singular mission has been to provide food to civilians in dire need,” he explained, noting the importance of restoring dignity to those in Gaza amidst ongoing conflict.

The GHF has faced numerous challenges, including allegations of corruption and accusations from the UN and other NGOs claiming that it was misusing aid. Reportedly, the UN’s aid agency has voiced frustration over GHF’s effectiveness.

In August, a whistleblower indicated that while the Israel Defense Forces were aiding GHF’s efforts, UN agencies were less cooperative, which complicated aid distribution. The UN’s Stéphane Dujarric dismissed these claims as baseless.

Throughout its operation, GHF stated that no aid trucks had been looted, a feat amidst a challenging landscape where other organizations have struggled.

GHF’s leaders attributed their success to US leadership and the support of their mission, with plans to reignite their efforts if new humanitarian needs arise. Ackley expressed sadness over the friendships forged with Gazans during this journey, especially with women and children who benefitted from their support.

The organization now finds itself at a crossroads, with reflections on the impact it has made and uncertainty about future operations. Meanwhile, the ongoing conflict continues to shape the realities on the ground, as the situation in Gaza evolves.