UN slams U.S.-Israel Gaza aid proposal
United Nations aid chief Tom Fletcher criticized an Israeli-designed and U.S.-backed plan for aid distribution in Gaza, labeling it a "cynical sideshow" that distracts from the ongoing violence and displacement of Palestinians. Since March 2, no aid has reached Gaza, where a global hunger monitor warns that 500,000 people are at risk of starvation, representing a quarter of the population. Israel has accused Hamas of stealing aid, a claim the group denies, and has blocked deliveries until all hostages are released.
Fletcher emphasized that the U.N. has mechanisms to ensure aid reaches civilians rather than Hamas, but Israel's restrictions hinder access, prioritizing military objectives over humanitarian needs. He noted that discussions with Israeli authorities have occurred over a dozen times to establish a viable aid distribution model, which must allow access to all in need.
In response to the stalemate, the U.S. has supported a new mechanism for aid delivery through private companies, echoing Israel's proposal. Acting U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Dorothy Shea, stated that senior U.S. officials are collaborating with Israel to create a Gaza Humanitarian Foundation aimed at ensuring aid reaches those in need without interference from Hamas.
Fletcher rejected the Israeli distribution model, arguing it exacerbates displacement and restricts aid to only certain areas, making humanitarian assistance conditional on political and military goals. The Security Council expressed concern over any aid distribution plan that prioritizes political objectives over civilian needs, with several member states, including Britain and France, voicing their opposition.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in significant casualties, with over 52,700 Palestinians reported killed since the outbreak of hostilities.
