Gaza Aid Control is Being Handed Over to Mercenaries

A little-known group, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), is poised to take control of aid distribution in Gaza under a controversial U.S.-backed plan that would marginalize the UN and rely on private contractors and Israeli military protection.

The new system is expected to become the sole route for food and medicine deliveries into Gaza by the end of the month, replacing the UN’s traditional role. Over 90 aid trucks were allowed into the enclave this week after international pressure forced Israel to briefly ease a nearly three-month siege.

Aid Tied to Security Zones, Mercenaries

GHF, a Swiss-incorporated entity with murky leadership and funding, plans to operate centralized distribution hubs, largely in southern Gaza, with access controlled by armed foreign private security. Two American firms, Safe Reach Solutions and UG Solutions, will manage security, despite previous concerns during a short-lived ceasefire.

The plan, modeled in part on Israeli military proposals, calls for so-called “sterile zones” free of Hamas presence. Palestinians would have to travel long distances to access food, sparking fears that it may indirectly facilitate displacement.

GHF claims it can deliver 300 million meals in 90 days at $1.30 each—including security costs—but no major foreign donor has publicly confirmed contributions.

UN Condemns Plan as Politically Weaponized

UN officials and major NGOs have denounced the GHF model as a politically motivated and dangerous shift in humanitarian norms. UN aid chief Tom Fletcher warned the scheme “makes starvation a bargaining chip,” while UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini insisted there is no evidence Hamas has diverted significant aid.

The UN has refused to join the system, citing concerns about civilian safety and access. Critics argue the plan ties basic humanitarian needs to military and political strategies, with Israeli far-right officials openly calling it a path to population transfer.

Blair, Beasley, and the Search for Legitimacy

GHF documentation referenced figures like former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair and ex-World Food Programme chief David Beasley, though both deny formal involvement. The group's executive director, Jake Wood, a U.S. Marine veteran, insists the operation will be “civilian-run,” though contractors' rules of engagement remain unclear.

Despite the backlash, the U.S. government continues to champion the model. “Due to [Trump’s] inspirational leadership, we are steps away from a major win for everyone,” a State Department spokesperson said, urging the UN to collaborate.