US Pledges $30M to Disputed Gaza Aid Group Backed by Israel

The United States has announced $30 million in funding for a controversial humanitarian initiative in Gaza, urging other nations to support the effort despite criticism from aid organisations and the United Nations.

“We have approved funding for $30 million to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), and we call on others to support its critical work,” said State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott on Thursday.

The move marks Washington’s first direct support for the GHF, a privately run relief group operating in Gaza with backing from Israeli forces and armed US contractors. The foundation began distributing aid in late May, following Israel’s two-month blockade of humanitarian supplies, which began in March.

The blockade, imposed in the aftermath of the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, has worsened the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which has been devastated by Israeli airstrikes. Warnings of famine have mounted amid severe shortages of food and essentials.

The GHF’s operations have sparked controversy. Gaza’s health ministry reports that nearly 550 people have been killed near aid centres since late May while scrambling for limited supplies. The foundation denies that fatal incidents occurred directly at its distribution points.

The UN and major humanitarian agencies have declined to work with the GHF, citing concerns over neutrality and its coordination with military forces, which they argue violates core humanitarian principles.

In defence of the programme, Pigott said the GHF has already distributed more than 46 million meals and described the effort as “absolutely incredible” and worthy of praise.

“From day one, we’ve said we’re open to creative solutions that securely deliver aid to Gazans while ensuring Israel’s security,” he said.

Pigott added that the funding reflects the broader regional goals of President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who aim to promote stability and peace in the Middle East.