Israel appears to be changing its stance on aid distribution in Gaza, allowing aid groups to continue overseeing non-food assistance while leaving food distribution to a newly established U.S.-backed group. The decision comes as pressure mounts to get more aid into the territory, which has been experiencing a severe humanitarian crisis for nearly three months.
The Israeli military agency responsible for transferring aid, COGAT, has agreed to let the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) handle non-food items such as medical supplies and hygiene materials under an existing system led by the United Nations. However, GHF will still maintain control over food distribution.
The move is seen as a significant shift from Israel’s previous plan, which would have tightly controlled all aid to prevent diversion. The U.N. had rejected this plan, citing concerns that it would allow Israel to use food as a weapon and violate humanitarian principles.
Aid groups have been critical of the plan, arguing that it could displace Palestinians and that GHF lacks the capacity to meet their needs. Despite these concerns, some aid organizations, such as Save the Children and Project HOPE, are supportive of the new arrangement.
The letter from GHF’s head, Jake Wood, reveals that Israel has agreed to allow non-food aid to be handled by established actors under the U.N.’s leadership. The GHF will maintain control over food distribution, but there will be a period of overlap with aid groups.
This development is seen as a positive step towards addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where 2.3 million Palestinians are struggling due to lack of access to basic necessities like food and medicine. The U.N. has warned of a high risk of famine, and international criticism and outrage have escalated.
The U.S. has also voiced concerns over the hunger crisis in Gaza, with some calling for Israel’s military actions to be reevaluated. While details remain unclear, including who is funding GHF, the agreement marks an effort by both Israel and aid groups to provide functioning aid to those in need.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-war-aid-groups-89068e30fe90e8c13a6203836945b122