The United States has pledged $30 million to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) to support ongoing food aid efforts, the State Department announced Thursday.
The funding will go toward food distribution centres in the Gaza Strip, many of which have been scenes of chaos and violence in recent weeks. According to Palestinian health officials, nearly 550 people have died since late May while trying to collect aid near distribution points.
State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the US strongly supports the foundation’s work and encouraged other nations to contribute. “We approved $30 million in funding for the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation and call on others to support this vital effort,” Pigott told reporters.
The GHF, which began operating in Gaza in late May following a temporary easing of Israel’s blockade, claims to have already distributed over 46 million meals.
Its interim executive director, John Acree, welcomed the funding and called for broader cooperation: “It’s time to unite and work together. We hope other humanitarian organisations will join us in reaching more people across Gaza.”
However, the foundation remains controversial. The UN and several aid agencies have refused to work with it, citing concerns over its operational methods and lack of neutrality. The GHF is reportedly supported by both Washington and Israel, and uses armed guards to secure its distribution points.
Despite this, US officials defended the initiative. “It’s remarkable that they’ve managed to distribute 46 million meals already. That deserves recognition,” said Pigott.
The funding is part of President Donald Trump’s and Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s stated goal to advance peace and stability in the region, the State Department added.
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