The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a controversial aid group backed by the US and Israel, has suspended its operations in Gaza following the deaths of 102 Palestinians who were attempting to collect food aid.
The decision was announced Wednesday, accompanied by a stark warning from the Israeli military declaring all roads to distribution centers as ‘combat zones’.
An Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson confirmed Tuesday that from now on, civilians are prohibited from approaching these routes, citing security concerns.
GHF, in a social media post, stated that the shutdown is necessary for renovation, restructuring, and improving operational efficiency. The organization warned civilians to stay away from distribution centers.
Since GHF began distributing aid on May 27, nearly daily attacks by Israeli forces on crowds of starving Palestinians have been reported. Gaza’s Health Ministry confirmed that 102 people have been killed and hundreds injured while attempting to access food.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attacks, calling for an independent investigation and demanding accountability. “People should not have to risk their lives for food. This is unacceptable,” he said.
On the same day GHF halted operations, it appointed Rev. Dr. Johnny Moore—a former evangelical adviser to President Donald Trump—as its new executive chairman. Moore claimed GHF proves that “mass food aid can be delivered safely and efficiently.”
However, GHF has faced criticism since its launch. The UN and other aid agencies have refused to work with the group, citing its lack of neutrality and alleged ties to Israeli military interests.
GHF was registered in Geneva in February 2025 but began aid distribution only on May 26, one day after its founding director Jake Wood resigned, citing ethical concerns over its mission and operations. GHF has yet to disclose its funding sources.
