The **Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF)** is a private aid delivery mechanism established in early 2025, backed by the Israeli government and the United States, with the stated goal of distributing emergency food and essential supplies directly to the population of Gaza[1][3][6]. It emerged amid a severe humanitarian crisis caused by an Israeli blockade and prolonged conflict that has pushed over 2 million Gazans toward famine, with nearly half a million children facing catastrophic hunger[1]. The U.S. has provided $30 million in funding to GHF, which operates under Israeli oversight and is led primarily by military contractors rather than traditional humanitarian professionals[1][2].
GHF coordinates a coalition to deliver aid efficiently, claiming to offer a secure, neutral, and transparent logistics model. It engages local community leaders to facilitate aid distribution and safeguard its operations, aiming to expand support deeper into underserved areas by training local “champions” and creating safe hubs for NGOs and services beyond immediate relief[3][5][6]. The foundation operates three main distribution centers in Gaza, distributing food packages and other essentials[5].
However, GHF has faced severe criticism and controversy from multiple international actors. UN experts and established humanitarian organizations have condemned it for lacking independence, transparency, and accountability, warning that it violates international humanitarian law by militarizing aid and undermining trusted agencies like the UNRWA and the World Food Programme[1][4]. Critics argue GHF represents a politicized and militarized aid scheme that risks weaponizing humanitarian assistance and obstructing neutral, impartial relief efforts[1][4]. Its ties to Israeli intelligence and military contractors raise concerns about covert military agendas under the guise of humanitarian work[4]. Calls have been made for dismantling the foundation and restoring full access for neutral aid organizations to Gaza[4].
In summary, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation is a controversial, government-backed private entity created to deliver aid amid a dire crisis in Gaza, but it faces significant international opposition due to concerns