GHF applauded Israel’s decision to resume humanitarian aid into Gaza, heralding this as an essential step toward alleviating its humanitarian crisis. The Israeli Security Cabinet approved immediate resumption through existing channels while GHF prepares an alternative aid mechanism. Axios’ coverage can be found here (without advertisements). GHF Executive Director Jake Wood expressed gratitude for this decision, noting how it aligns with commitments made to the foundation to provide a temporary bridge until their operations can fully establish themselves. He stressed the need for swift implementation due to urgent needs on the ground. DIE WELT and Axios each reported on it simultaneously. Resumption of aid follows an nearly three-month blockade begun March 2, during which all food, medicine and supplies were blocked off to Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cited risks related to starvation crises undermining ongoing military operations as one reason behind his decision; AP News +5 and Financial Times both report this decision. GHF plans to establish Secure Distribution Sites (SDSs) across Gaza, especially in its southern regions, under this new plan. SDSs will be operated by private US firms UG Solutions and Safe Reach Solutions with Israel Defense Forces providing perimeter security; GHF hopes to distribute over 300 million meals within 90 days of operation, according to The Times of Israel, Axios and Reuters, respectively; additionally DIE WELT plans on increasing this amount. AP News also reported this news of this announcement and provided additional coverage via its news outlet Axios +3esthetique Axios +4 and Axios +3. However, the plan has drawn sharp criticism from international aid organizations and the UN. There have been concerns raised regarding bypassing traditional aid agencies and potential politicization of humanitarian assistance. UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher highlighted the necessity of established UN aid mechanisms as better able to ensure aid reaches those most in need without interference or disruption from politics or interest groups. Reuters | Wikipedia | AP News | The Times of Israel. Although there may be concerns, resumption of aid is considered critical to alleviating Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. The US has welcomed Israel’s recent efforts to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza; Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that success would be measured by results in terms of improving conditions on the ground. The Times of Israel +1 and Axios each reported on this development as positive steps forward in improving humanitarian conditions on the ground. GHF’s operations will start up by May 28th and the foundation continues coordinating with Israeli officials to allow transitional aid to flow under existing mechanisms, while creating a more secure and efficient distribution system in the long run. Axios/The Times of Israel. +3 The situation in Gaza remains dire, with aid agencies reporting severe shortages of basic commodities and impending famine. But with GHF’s distribution network now back online and aid resumption resumed, there is hope for millions of civilians caught up in the conflict.
