The U.S.-funded Gaza Humanitarian Foundation suspended all operations in the Gaza Strip for a full day following a series of deadly shootings at its aid distribution sites, as international criticism mounted over its handling of famine relief.

Since launching operations on May 27, GHF aid centers—operating under U.S. and Israeli supervision—have seen three separate mass casualty events. At least 107 Palestinians have been killed and nearly 500 wounded while seeking food and water, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The group said it would “pause and re-evaluate safety procedures.”

One local volunteer said, “People came for food, and they left in coffins.”

Evangelical Pastor Appointed as New Director

The foundation also announced a major leadership change, installing U.S. evangelical pastor Chad Ralston as its new director. Ralston, a former army chaplain and missionary, replaces retired U.S. General Hugh Donnelly. His appointment raised eyebrows among Palestinian officials and UN agencies, with one anonymous diplomat calling it “a political escalation under the cover of aid.”

GHF says Ralston will focus on “faith-based logistics, reconciliation, and crisis leadership.”

UN and Civil Society Raise Concerns

UNRWA and OCHA officials condemned the GHF operation as “deeply flawed,” noting the lack of coordination with local agencies and poor crowd control. A UN field officer said, “The U.S.-Israel-run aid system is neither safe nor impartial. It has turned humanitarian corridors into mass graves.”

There are also growing concerns that the use of private contractors and limited access routes—such as the Netzarim Corridor—have created chaos rather than relief.

Washington Faces Pressure to Rethink Approach

Amid the rising toll, Washington faces renewed calls to restore UN aid channels and ensure safety guarantees. A senior White House official said the administration is “reviewing the structure and leadership of the GHF in light of recent events.”

No aid was delivered on June 3, the day of the pause. GHF has pledged to resume distribution after a 48-hour safety audit.