MSF Demands Halt to Controversial Humanitarian Aid Effort in Gaza

In Geneva, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) expressed its strong opposition to a relief operation in Gaza, which is supported by Israel and the United States. The charity criticized the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) for supposedly demeaning Palestinians by compelling them to choose between the risk of starvation and dangers associated with acquiring minimal food supplies. They highlighted the tragic fact that over 500 individuals have been killed while attempting to procure food in the Gaza Strip in recent times.

Following Israel's blockade of essential supplies, which lasted over two months starting in March, widespread fears of famine among the Palestinian population have intensified. The United Nations views Israel’s control over the West Bank and Gaza as illegal under international law. The Gaza Strip has suffered extensive destruction due to Israeli bombings since Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023. Though food supplies began to be allowed in late May, the efforts have been overshadowed by reports of chaos and Israeli military firing on people desperate for food.

Concerns regarding the neutrality of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which operates as a private entity with unclear funding sources, have also arisen. Prominent humanitarian organizations and the United Nations have opted not to collaborate with GHF, indicating that it may further Israeli military objectives and breach fundamental humanitarian principles. According to the Gaza health ministry, nearly 550 individuals have died in proximity to aid centers while trying to obtain food since late May. MSF has called for the immediate termination of this initiative, deeming it an unacceptable situation in which aid efforts are falsely presented as compassionate action.