Background on the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) was established to provide aid to Palestinians following an 11-week Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip. As a U.S.-backed organization, GHF has been tasked with delivering essential supplies such as food and medical assistance to thousands of Gazans living in dire conditions. However, recent developments have raised serious concerns about its operations and effectiveness.
Internal Government Assessment Raises Concerns
An internal government assessment conducted by USAID officials revealed “critical concerns” regarding GHF’s ability to protect and deliver aid to Palestinians. The assessment, which was obtained by CNN, highlights numerous issues with the funding application submitted by the organization. According to the 14-page document, GHF’s proposal lacked even basic details, raising questions about its operational capabilities.
One of the most alarming points mentioned in the report is the potential distribution of powdered baby formula in areas where clean water is not available for preparation. This poses significant risks to infant health and safety, as improper preparation can lead to contamination and increased morbidity and mortality rates.
Funding Controversy and Approval Process
Despite these concerns, the State Department announced a $30 million grant for GHF just days after the assessment was completed. This decision has sparked controversy among critics who argue that the funding was approved without proper scrutiny. A source familiar with the matter stated that the application was “abysmal” and “sorely lacking real content.”
The approval process was expedited, with top political appointees pressing for the funding to be fast-tracked. It remains unclear whether the full 14-page assessment was reviewed by those in charge of the decision. Internal memo dated June 24, four days after the assessment, recommended waiving certain criteria due to the “humanitarian and political urgency” of GHF’s operations.
Reactions from Officials and the Organization
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the funding, stating that it fulfilled President Trump’s commitment to feed the people of Gaza. He accused critics of engaging in “bureaucratic turf wars” and emphasized that GHF is a results-focused alternative to a broken aid system. According to the spokesperson, GHF has delivered over 66 million meals to Gazans in just weeks.
In response to the USAID assessment, a GHF spokesperson defended the organization’s work, stating that the concerns raised are routine for a funding application. They emphasized that they are addressing each question as per regulations and will continue to do so as required.
Missing Requirements and Operational Challenges
The USAID assessment identified several missing elements in GHF’s application, including a detailed risk planning document and a mission statement that met requirements for Safe and Accountable programming. The review highlighted that GHF must explain how it will “do no harm” and provide specific details on plans to ensure safety, access, and accountability.
Additionally, the assessment noted inconsistencies in the project timelines across the application and questioned the adequacy of staffing for the proposed expansion from four to eight aid distribution sites. Without clear details on site locations and budget allocations, it remains uncertain how the $30 million in funding will be utilized effectively.
Expedited Approval and International Criticism
Under normal procedures, the concerns outlined in the assessment would have been relayed to GHF before the funding was approved. However, this did not happen, and the State Department publicly announced the approval of the $30 million in funding on June 26. A former USAID official noted that while there is precedent for a quick approval process, it is typically reserved for trusted partners.
International criticism has mounted against GHF’s militarized operation, which relies on armed American security contractors working in coordination with the Israel Defense Forces. Over 240 NGOs have called for an immediate end to GHF’s operation, citing the dangers faced by Palestinians attempting to access food.
Ongoing Issues and Future Implications
Despite the funding approval, the issue of GHF’s operational effectiveness remains unresolved. The previously unreported details in the assessment highlight how the Trump administration greenlit funding for the group despite career staffers’ concerns. The swift approval of the funding comes amid mounting international pressure against the group’s operations.
As the situation in Gaza continues to evolve, the role of organizations like GHF in delivering aid remains critical. However, the concerns raised by USAID and other stakeholders underscore the need for transparency, accountability, and adherence to humanitarian principles in all aid operations.
