Head of controversial US-backed Gaza aid group resigns citing compromised principles

AFP , Monday 26 May 2025

The head of a controversial US-backed group preparing to move aid into the Gaza Strip announced his abrupt resignation Sunday, citing an inability to adhere to "humanitarian principles."

gaza
Palestinian children gather to receive a hot meal at a food distribution point in the Nuseirat camp for refugees in the central Gaza Strip. AFP

 

In a statement by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), executive director Jake Wood explained that he felt compelled to leave after determining the organisation could not fulfil its mission in a way that adhered to "humanitarian principles."

The foundation, which has been based in Geneva since February, has vowed to distribute some 300 million meals in its first 90 days of operation.

But the United Nations and traditional aid agencies have already said they will not cooperate with the group, amid accusations it is working with Israel to reinforce control over life-sustaining items as a pressure tactic as part of a military strategy.

The GHF has emerged as international pressure mounts on Israel over the conditions in Gaza, where it has been pursuing a military onslaught since October 7, 2023.

A more than two-month total blockade on the territory only began to ease in recent days, as agencies warned of growing starvation risks.

"Two months ago, I was approached about leading GHF's efforts because of my experience in humanitarian operations" Wood said.

"Like many others around the world, I was horrified and heartbroken at the hunger crisis in Gaza and, as a humanitarian leader, I was compelled to do whatever I could to help alleviate the suffering."

Wood stressed that he was "proud of the work I oversaw, including developing a pragmatic plan that could feed hungry people, address security concerns about diversion, and complement the work of longstanding NGOs in Gaza."

But, he said, it had become "clear that it is not possible to implement this plan while also strictly adhering to the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence, which I will not abandon."

Wood called on Israel "to significantly expand the provision of aid into Gaza through all mechanisms" while also urging "all stakeholders to continue to explore innovative new methods for the delivery of aid, without delay, diversion, or discrimination."

Israel has killed that at least 3,785 people in Gaza since it resumed its war on March 18, taking the war's overall toll to 53,939 Palestinians, mostly children and women.

Short link: