Background on the Situation in Gaza
Gaza, a Palestinian enclave, has been facing a dire humanitarian crisis since mid-March when no aid deliveries have reached the region. Approximately half a million people are at risk of starvation, constituting one-fourth of Gaza’s population. The ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which began in October 2023, has exacerbated the situation.
US-Backed Humanitarian Foundation in Gaza
A US-backed humanitarian foundation, named the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, is set to commence operations in Gaza by late May. The foundation aims to distribute aid under a highly controversial plan, which has led to the United Nations’ decision not to participate.
UN’s Reasons for Non-Participation
According to Farhan Haq, the UN’s Deputy Spokesperson, “This specific distribution plan does not align with our fundamental principles, including impartiality, neutrality, and independence. Therefore, we will not be participating in it.”
Israel’s Stance and Commitment to Facilitate Aid
Israel has pledged to support the effort by facilitating aid deliveries without directly participating in the distribution process. Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the UN, stated, “We will not fund these efforts. We will facilitate them. We will allow them. Some of these efforts may need to cross territories where we operate.”
Key Concerns and Challenges
Israel has accused Hamas of stealing aid, a claim the group denies. In response, Israel has imposed a block on humanitarian deliveries to Gaza until Hamas releases all remaining captives.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current humanitarian situation in Gaza? Since mid-March, no aid deliveries have reached Gaza. Half a million people are at risk of starvation, representing one-fourth of the enclave’s population.
- Why is the UN not participating in the US-backed humanitarian effort? The UN believes that the distribution plan lacks impartiality, neutrality, and independence, which are fundamental principles for their involvement.
- What role will Israel play in the aid distribution? Israel has committed to facilitating the effort by allowing aid deliveries without directly participating in the distribution process.
- Why are humanitarian deliveries to Gaza blocked? Israel has imposed a block on humanitarian deliveries until Hamas releases all remaining captives, alleging that Hamas is responsible for stealing aid.
