The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) is facing serious criticism over its operations in Gaza. Johnnie Moore, the group’s executive director, recently claimed that the United Nations is spreading "disinformation" regarding the number of people killed while trying to access food aid. The UN reported that at least 410 Palestinians have died since Israel lifted an aid blockade on May 19, while the Gaza health ministry, which is controlled by Hamas, reported that at least 549 people have been killed.
Moore, who has ties to the first Trump administration, accused the UN of running a "disinformation campaign" aimed at undermining the GHF’s relief efforts. He stated that since starting its operations in May, the GHF has delivered over 44 million meals to those in need.
However, the GHF’s work has been met with skepticism. The organization is backed by Israel and the United States, but has been rejected by the UN and other humanitarian groups. Critics argue that the aid distribution system used by the GHF is ineffective and could lead to further displacement of Palestinians. They claim that Israel is using food as a weapon and that the GHF’s operations violate humanitarian principles by allowing a warring party to control aid distribution.
The GHF is currently distributing food packages at four locations in southern Gaza, each designed to feed 5.5 people for 3.5 days. Many Palestinians have to walk for hours to reach these aid hubs, often passing through areas controlled by the Israeli military, where they face the risk of being shot at by Israeli forces.
Rachael Cummings from Save the Children pointed out that people are being forced to go to these American- and Israeli-backed distribution points, which many locals view as a trap designed to displace them rather than genuinely provide aid. One Gazan man described the situation as chaotic, suggesting that if the GHF truly wanted to help, they would have organized the aid distribution better.
While Moore acknowledged the casualties in the region, he emphasized that the GHF is not attempting to replace the UN but rather to provide similar assistance. He argued that the GHF can communicate with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), which allows for investigations into incidents that occur during aid distribution.
The US State Department recently approved $30 million in funding for the GHF, despite some officials expressing concerns about the violence surrounding aid sites and the group’s inexperience. The GHF’s reliance on for-profit logistics and military firms has also raised eyebrows.
In response to the controversy, a spokesperson for the UN’s humanitarian office expressed openness to discussing solutions with the GHF. However, they noted that the current aid distribution process is not dignified and fails to meet the needs of everyone in Gaza. Oxfam’s CEO also criticized Moore’s claims, asserting that they contradict the reality on the ground, where many are at risk of famine.
As the situation unfolds, the challenges of delivering aid in Gaza remain significant, with many humanitarian organizations calling for an immediate ceasefire and greater access for experienced aid groups.