End of Controversial US-Backed Humanitarian Aid in Gaza Raises Concerns

Tue Nov 25 2025 20:29:47 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, backed by the US and Israel, ceases its operations amidst controversies and criticism from various sides, including casualties during its aid distribution.

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) is winding down its humanitarian aid operations in Gaza after nearly six months of distribution. The decision comes in the wake of a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, amidst critiques regarding the organization's methods which bypassed the UN, contributing to dangerous conditions for Palestinians accessing food aid. Amidst claims of accountability, GHF reported delivering over 187 million meals but faced condemnation for the casualties that occurred near its distribution sites.

End of Controversial US-Backed Humanitarian Aid in Gaza Raises Concerns

The controversial, US and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) says it is winding down its aid operations in the Palestinian territory, after almost six months.

The organization had already suspended its three food distribution sites in Gaza after the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel took effect six weeks ago.

The GHF aimed to bypass the UN as the main supplier of aid to Gaza's population. UN and other aid agencies refused to cooperate with its system, saying it was unethical and unsafe.

Hundreds of Palestinians were killed while seeking food amid chaotic scenes near GHF's sites, mostly by Israeli fire, according to the UN. Israel said its troops fired warning shots.

The GHF said on Monday that it was winding down operations now because of the successful completion of its emergency mission, with a total of three million packages containing the equivalent of more than 187 million meals delivered to Palestinians.

The GHF's executive director, Jon Acree, also said the US-led Civil-Military Coordination Centre (CMCC) would be adopting and expanding the model GHF piloted.

US state department spokesperson Tommy Piggott claimed that the GHF's model played a significant role in getting Hamas to the negotiating table for the ceasefire.

Meanwhile, Hamas welcomed GHF's closure and accused it of causing harm to Palestinians, urging for accountability from international human rights organizations.

The GHF began operations in Gaza on 26 May, shortly after a blockade on aid and commercial deliveries was partially eased. The organization faced criticism for operating in militarized zones, where many casualties were reported.

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stated that the shutdown of GHF would have no impact on UN operations, highlighting the continued need for aid as the situation remains dire for Gaza's population.