US-Backed Aid Group Begins Food Distribution in Gaza Amid Conflict

A U.S.-backed humanitarian organization, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), has initiated a new aid delivery system in the Gaza Strip amid an ongoing Israeli blockade that has lasted nearly three months. The GHF has begun distributing food aid through newly established distribution hubs, aiming to reach about one million Palestinians, approximately half of Gaza's population, by the end of the week. This operation involves screening families at four main centers in southern Gaza, potentially using biometric technologies, a measure Israel defends as necessary to prevent Hamas militants from diverting aid. However, the initiative has faced sharp criticism from Hamas, which condemns it as a tactic to weaponize food and cause further civilian suffering, and from the United Nations and other aid groups that question the system's efficacy and object to Israel's control over aid access. The GHF's launch came shortly after the resignation of its executive director, with unclear funding sources, and amidst ongoing heavy Israeli airstrikes that have resulted in significant civilian casualties. Additionally, reports indicate Hamas's rejection of a ceasefire proposal involving hostages, reflecting the continuing conflict dynamics complicating humanitarian efforts.