A US-led group, backed by Israel, has asked the Trump administration for $30 million in aid to continue its humanitarian work in Gaza. The foundation, known as the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, claims to have provided millions of meals since May but faces criticism from major humanitarian groups and human rights organizations.
The organization’s application, obtained by AP, reveals that it has received nearly $119 million from unknown government donors for its May operations. It expects an additional $38 million in June, with the hoped-for $30 million from the US.
However, critics argue that the foundation’s involvement is tainted by its cooperation with Israel’s objectives during the 20-month-old war against Hamas. The group has been accused of violating humanitarian principles and has seen near-daily fatal shootings of Palestinians trying to reach distribution sites.
The Trump administration’s decision to award the aid is not clear, as the funding application was processed with little review and auditing normally required before Washington makes foreign assistance grants. Israel claims that the foundation is part of a new aid system aimed at wresting control from the UN, but critics argue that it would amount to coercive departures for Palestinians.
The US Agency for International Development said in a statement that it does not fund the operation. The application also reveals no funding from private philanthropy or any other source.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/israeli-palestinians-state-department-trump-united-nations-b2774492.html