The executive director of a US-backed private humanitarian organization in Gaza, responsible for distributing aid through an Israeli-initiated plan, has resigned. In a statement, Jake Wood, the director of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), stated that the operation would not fulfill its mission in a way that adhered to “humanitarian principles”. The GHF, which is based in Geneva, planned to distribute 300 million meals within the first 90 days of its operation. However, the United Nations and traditional aid agencies have refused to cooperate with the group, citing concerns over potential violations of “fundamental humanitarian principles” and international law.
The resignation of Mr. Wood adds uncertainty to the future of the operation amid growing international pressure on Israel, which has been conducting a military campaign in Gaza since October 2023 in response to attacks by Hamas. A recent strike on a school killed at least 13 displaced people, according to local authorities. Mr. Wood expressed his pride in developing a plan to feed hungry people and address security concerns but concluded it was impossible to implement while adhering strictly to humanitarian principles. He called on Israel to expand the provision of aid to Gaza through various mechanisms and for stakeholders to explore new methods of aid delivery without delay, diversion, or discrimination. The UN has stated that the planned aid distribution could lead to forced relocation and more violence, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as the sick, disabled, elderly, and children.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/26/gaza-humanitarian-foundation-aid-group-jake-wood-resigns
