A US-backed foundation tasked with supplying aid to Gaza has begun operations, delivering truckloads of food to designated distribution sites. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) announced the development on Monday, despite concerns that the scheme may breach international law.
Aid Delivery Amid Uncertainty
The aid plan, endorsed by Israel but rejected by the UN, unfolded amid uncertainty about whether any assistance had actually reached civilians. While Palestinians reported no sign of aid deliveries earlier on Monday, the GHF later confirmed that truckloads of food had been delivered to its hubs, and distribution had begun.
Concerns Over Aid Plan
The new aid plan has been described as unworkable, dangerous, and potentially unlawful by aid agencies. Under the GHF plan, Palestinians would collect aid boxes weighing up to 20kg from four distribution points in southern Gaza. The UN’s humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher, has warned that the plan would force further displacement and make “starvation a bargaining chip”.
Resignation of GHF Head
The GHF’s head, Jake Wood, resigned on Sunday, citing concerns that the foundation would not be allowed to operate independently. Wood stated that the organization could not adhere to humanitarian principles, including humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence.
Background
Israel imposed a total aid blockade in early March, cutting off all supplies, including food, medicine, shelter, and fuel. The blockade has been widely condemned as collective punishment of the civilian population in Gaza. The Israeli military claims the blockade is aimed at pressuring Hamas into releasing hostages.
Ongoing Conflict
At least 81 people have been killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza since early Monday, including 53 in Gaza City. The Israeli military has also intercepted a missile and a projectile launched from Yemen toward Israel.
UN Agency’s Response
The UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, has condemned Israel’s forced displacement of Palestinian people, stating that Gaza’s population is being treated “like pinballs” forced to flee in search of safety that doesn’t exist.
Key Points:
Aid Delivery: US-backed aid group begins operations in Gaza despite law concerns.
Uncertainty: Uncertainty surrounds whether assistance has reached civilians.
Concerns Over Aid Plan: Aid plan described as unworkable, dangerous, and potentially unlawful.
Resignation: GHF head resigns citing concerns over independence.
Ongoing Conflict: Israeli attacks continue, with at least 81 people killed since Monday.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the population facing severe shortages of essential supplies and ongoing violence. The effectiveness and implications of the new aid plan will be closely watched.
Source: Africa Publicity
US, Aid Group, Gaza Operations, GHF
Want to publish a news story, press release, statement, article or biography on
www.africapublicity.com?
Send it to us via
WhatsApp on +233543452542 or email
africapublicityandproductions@gmail.com or to our editor through
melvintarlue2022@gmail.com.