As Gaza continues to experience worsening humanitarian problems, the newly established Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) plans to start aid operations by May 2025. Executive Director Jake Wood has laid out GHF’s plans for providing essential supplies such as 300 million meals in their first 90 days of operations – which are estimated by The Times of Israel, WDSU, Wikipedia, YouTube and AP News as being achievable targets. GHF, with backing from both America and Israel, plans to establish “Safe Distribution Sites” across Gaza using private contractors for security and logistics services. These are designed to ensure aid reaches those in need without interference from militant groups; Wood has stressed that its mission is purely humanitarian: “We unequivocally will not participate in anything which forcibly dislocates or displaces Palestinian populations.” (Reuters/Axios/The Times of Israel/Wikipedia etc). Due to international pressure and dire conditions in Gaza, Israel has conceded to allow limited humanitarian aid into the region via existing mechanisms until GHF’s infrastructure is up and running fully. This interim measure includes delivery of baby food and medical supplies via Kerem Shalom crossing. AP News or El Pais both report that limited humanitarian assistance has entered Gaza through Kerem Shalom crossing and existing mechanisms – until GHF infrastructure becomes fully functional. +1 WILPA News in El Pais reports this news story GHF’s approach has come under criticism from established humanitarian organizations. United Nations aid chief Tom Fletcher voiced reservations over its neutrality and effectiveness; he advised not wasting time with U.S.-backed plans when resources and strategies already available are more suitable. Facebook, New York Post, Instagram and AP News all gave it positive ratings (excluding Reuters which received one star). Wood remains committed to the GHF’s mission despite criticism, noting their efforts to collaborate with international partners and garner funds to support its operations. While acknowledging challenges ahead, he expressed faith that they foundation would deliver aid effectively and transparently. As Gaza continues to experience increased levels of death and destruction since October 2023, and over 53,000 Palestinians reported killed since, the international community closely watches whether GHF’s initiatives can bring relief and alleviate suffering for civilians of Gaza.
