US State Department Reports Considering $500M Gaza Aid Funding Amid Concerns

The U.S. State Department is considering providing $500 million in aid to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a move prompted by Israel's request to fund GHF's operations for 180 days amid ongoing humanitarian needs in Gaza. This proposal, championed by acting deputy USAID Administrator Ken Jackson, faces resistance from some U.S. officials concerned about violence near aid distribution sites, overcrowding, and the GHF's competence, as the foundation has been criticized for a lack of neutrality and operational challenges. The GHF began distributing aid after an 11-week Israeli blockade, but its operations have been marred by chaos, including staff resignations and paused handouts due to overwhelming crowds. Some officials argue for involving experienced non-governmental organizations in the aid effort, a position likely opposed by Israel. Additionally, there are concerns over private U.S. security and logistics firms, such as a Chicago-based private equity firm with economic interests in GHF's contractors, highlighting complicated funding and oversight issues. The State Department and GHF have not commented on the matter, and the Israeli government has also not responded to requests for comment.