AhlulBayt News Agency: The United Nations has announced that it will not participate in a US-backed humanitarian operation in Gaza, citing concerns over impartiality, neutrality, and independence.
Deputy UN spokesperson Farhan Haq stated on Thursday that the proposed aid distribution plan does not align with the UN’s fundamental principles, and therefore, the organization will not be involved.
The US and Israel are reportedly moving forward with the establishment of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), an initiative aimed at bypassing existing international aid structures.
UN aid chief Tom Fletcher criticized the plan, describing it as a “fig leaf for further violence and displacement” of Palestinians in Gaza.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reaffirmed that the UN has a well-structured operational plan to deliver humanitarian aid across Gaza effectively and immediately.
The foundation is expected to begin operations in Gaza by the end of May. Reports indicate that David Beasley, former executive director of the World Food Program (WFP) and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, is being considered to manage the initiative.
Since March 2, Israel has blocked all humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza, accusing Hamas of diverting supplies—a claim the Palestinian resistance group denies.
A report by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification initiative warned that Gaza faces a critical risk of famine, with the vast majority of its 2.1 million residents severely affected.
The report found that 244,000 people in Gaza are experiencing “catastrophe/famine.”
Despite its unconditional support for Israel’s military campaign, the US has recently stated that it must consider both sides of the conflict.
Asked about Israel’s plans to expand the war in Gaza, US President Donald Trump remarked that “a lot of good things” are expected in the coming month, acknowledging the dire humanitarian situation.
Previously, Israel proposed distributing aid through six major hubs in southern Gaza, operated by private military contractors and secured by Israeli troops. However, the UN and humanitarian organizations rejected the plan, citing concerns over militarization and lack of neutrality.
In response to criticism, the new initiative aims to establish “Secure Distribution Sites” operated by civilians rather than the Israeli military. However, aid deliveries will still be conducted through armored convoys and monitored corridors.
Humanitarian activists and philanthropists remain skeptical of the US-Israeli initiative, arguing that it undermines established humanitarian systems and prioritizes political objectives over saving lives.
They warn that allowing governments to dictate aid distribution channels erodes trust, coordination, and the ability to reach those in need.
Under international law, all parties in a conflict must ensure the unobstructed delivery of food, water, and medicine to civilians—something Israel has repeatedly failed to do, according to human rights groups.
The UN has also warned that food stocks in Gaza may run out within days.
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