Israel has said that it would allow aid to enter Gaza, on the condition that it comes through the “Gaza Humanitarian Foundation”, which was set up by the US, a statement from the foundation said on May 14th.
The statement said that “[t]he Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) today announced that it will launch operations in the Gaza Strip before the end of the month,” according to Middle East Eye.
The action would ease pressure on Gazans suffering with extreme hunger from 19 months of conflict and an aid blockade which has gone on for over two months. A UN-endorsed panel said over half of Gaza’s people face “emergency” or “catastrophic” hunger levels, CNN reported on May 15th.
The BBC reported on April 2nd, that aid agencies warned that Israel must permit essential supplies to enter Gaza after the closure of humanitarian aid. Israel resumed military operations on March 18th, making aid deliveries increasingly difficult.
Numerous hospitals have reported shortages of antibiotics, painkillers, and surgical supplies. The World Health Organization declared most hospitals receiving trauma patients were almost full.
Representative of WHO, Rik Peeperkorn, stated via a video link that “[e]verything related to trauma is quickly running short.” He added: There are fewer than 500 blood units available – 4,500 blood packs are needed each month.”
The statement from the foundation also said that the move comes after talks with Israel to permit the transfer of “transitional” aid into Gaza “under existing mechanisms” while the foundation’s Secure Distribution Sites (SDS) is built.
The foundation stated its initial 90-day operation aims to distribute 300 million meals to those in need. It declared it would maintain its “own security” in the Strip and accused Hamas of previously taking aid.
The foundation faced strong criticism from senior aid officials, who say it lacks adequacy, risks civilians, and promotes forced displacement.
CNN, Middle East Eye, BBC
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