Gaza: The U.S and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) announced it will temporarily halt aid distribution across Gaza starting Wednesday. The decision follows a deadly incident in which Israeli forces opened fire on a crowd of Palestinians near one of the foundation’s aid sites, killing at least 27 people and injuring over 100 others.
Israeli military officials declared that roads leading to GHF distribution centers will be classified as “combat zones” on Wednesday and warned civilians to avoid these areas. “Travel on roads to the centers is prohibited, and entry into the distribution areas is strictly forbidden,” said an Israeli army spokesperson.
GHF cited logistical reasons for the pause in its activities, stating the suspension was to allow for "renovation, reorganization, and efficiency improvements." A post on the group’s social media urged people to stay away from the centers, adding that operations are expected to resume on Thursday.
Since GHF began aid efforts in Gaza on May 27, more than 100 Palestinians seeking assistance near the group’s sites have reportedly been killed by Israeli gunfire. The most recent attack has intensified international condemnation, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres calling for an independent investigation and accountability for those responsible.
“It is intolerable that Palestinians must risk their lives to access food,” Guterres said.
Israel acknowledged that its forces fired on the crowd Tuesday, claiming they acted after “suspects” veered off the approved route to the aid distribution point. The military stated it is investigating the incident and reviewing reports of casualties.
On the same day, GHF introduced its new executive chairman, Reverend Dr. Johnnie Moore — a U.S. evangelical leader who previously advised President Donald Trump. Moore asserted that GHF has proven it can deliver aid "safely, efficiently, and effectively," despite mounting criticism.
However, major humanitarian organizations, including the United Nations, have refused to work with GHF, accusing the group of operating without neutrality and further entrenching the Israeli military's influence over humanitarian aid. Critics say GHF’s operations align with Israeli efforts to depopulate northern Gaza by distributing aid only in the south, compelling vulnerable populations to traverse dangerous territory in search of assistance.
Moore’s appointment is likely to deepen these concerns. He has previously voiced support for a controversial Trump-era plan that suggested the U.S. take control of Gaza, displace its Palestinian population, and pursue redevelopment.
In response to Guterres's condemnation of Sunday's killings, Moore lashed out on social media, accusing the UN chief of spreading misinformation. “Mr. Secretary-General, it was a lie… spread by terrorists & you’re still spreading it,” he wrote.
Adding to the scrutiny surrounding GHF, its founding executive director, former U.S. Marine Jake Wood, resigned before the Gaza operation commenced. In his departure statement, Wood cited concerns over the organization's impartiality and independence.
GHF has not disclosed the sources of its funding, fueling further skepticism about its motives and affiliations amid an ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza — exacerbated by a months-long Israeli blockade on food, water, medicine, and other essentials.
