U.S. Grants $30 Million to Controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation

The U.S. State Department has announced a $30 million funding allocation for the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which has sparked criticism from various humanitarian organizations and the United Nations due to safety issues surrounding its operations.

On Thursday, the U.S. State Department confirmed its financial support of $30 million directed toward a new aid distribution initiative in Gaza, sparking a heated debate regarding the efficacy and safety of such assistance. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which is receiving these funds and is largely run by American contractors, is supported by Israel. However, its operational setup has faced significant backlash, particularly from humanitarian groups concerned about the risks posed to Gazans.

Thomas Pigott, a State Department spokesperson, praised the foundation, labeling it as "absolutely incredible" and urged other nations to contribute to its mission. He acknowledged that while the U.S. has previously supported the organization diplomatically, this is the first substantial financial commitment announced publicly.

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation commenced its operations in late May, but the reception has been marred by violence near the few distribution centers primarily located in southern Gaza. Humanitarian organizations have voiced concerns that the presence of Israeli military personnel nearby contributes to a hostile environment for aid recipients, potentially displacing civilians and risking their safety. Reports from the Gaza health ministry indicate that hundreds have died near the aid points since their establishment.

Witness accounts suggest that Israeli troops have used live fire when crowds approached these centers, despite the military asserting that they merely discharged “warning shots” to deter perceived threats. As the situation continues to unfold, both advocates for humanitarian aid and critics of the funding initiative are closely monitoring the implications of the U.S. financial support amidst ongoing conflict and humanitarian hardships in Gaza.