Gaza clans reject US NGO, defend UNRWA role in aid efforts
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Gaza’s tribal council rejects a US NGO’s role in aid delivery, calling it a threat to UNRWA’s presence and Palestinian sovereignty.
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Palestinians receive bags of flour and other humanitarian aid distributed by UNRWA, the UN agency helping Palestinian refugees in Jabaliya, Gaza Strip, on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. (AP)
The High Commission for Clans Affairs in the southern governorates of Gaza issued a strong statement on Sunday rejecting any foreign intervention that seeks to undermine Palestinian national sovereignty or bypass internationally recognized institutions operating in the Strip, foremost among them the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).
In a public declaration, the Commission denounced attempts to introduce a US-based organization known as Gaza Humanitarian Foundation to take over aid distribution responsibilities. The group warned that such a move represents a "serious prelude to dismantling the UN role in Gaza and replacing it with politically motivated entities."
"We strongly warn against the militarization of humanitarian aid and transforming relief efforts into tools of control over Gaza under the guise of assistance. This organization holds no legitimate standing, is rejected by both the public and the tribes, and its entry into Gaza crosses a red line," the statement added.
Utmost support for UNRWA's efforts
The Commission reaffirmed confidence in existing local and international institutions that have long supported the Palestinian people, citing UNRWA as a “symbol of political and national significance” and a pillar in defending the right of return and Palestinian identity.
It also praised the "noteworthy role of the Egyptian Red Crescent" for its sustained efforts to deliver humanitarian aid amid ongoing aggression.
In conclusion, the Commission emphasized that its position reflects the collective voice of Gaza’s families and tribes: “We categorically reject any suspicious entity seeking to dismantle the national and social fabric of Gaza. We reaffirm full support for the international institutions operating on the ground—especially UNRWA—and warn against any step that undermines Palestinian dignity or shifts decision-making power away from its rightful owners.”
UN rejects US-backed Gaza aid plan
The United Nations announced on Thursday that it will not participate in a US-backed humanitarian operation in Gaza, citing concerns over the plan’s failure to meet core humanitarian principles of impartiality, neutrality, and independence.
"This particular distribution plan does not accord with our basic principles," said Deputy UN Spokesperson Farhan Haq during a press briefing. "We will not be participating in this."
The initiative, known as the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), is set to begin operations by the end of May. It has faced criticism from humanitarian organizations and UN officials who warn that the structure and oversight of the plan could compromise aid delivery and exacerbate tensions in the blockaded strip.
The GHF, led by the United States, has requested that the Israeli occupation expand a limited number of secure aid distribution sites in southern Gaza to the more heavily affected north within 30 days. It has also asked for UN agencies and other organizations to resume aid deliveries temporarily until the foundation is fully operational.
No aid to Gaza in months
No aid has entered Gaza since March 2, and humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate. According to international famine monitors, more than 500,000 people, around a quarter of Gaza’s population, are facing imminent starvation. The blockade persists amid allegations from the Israeli occupation that Hamas is diverting aid, a claim the group denies. The Israeli occupation has conditioned the resumption of aid deliveries on the release of all remaining captives held by Hamas.
While the US and the Israeli occupation have urged the UN and humanitarian organizations to cooperate with the GHF, skepticism persists. Critics argue the foundation does not adhere to the humanitarian principles outlined by the UN and international law.
Danon said the “major operation” would launch soon, adding, “Israel will not be involved inside the operation center. We will not be the one giving the aid. We will not be even in those centers. It will be run by the fund itself, led by the US, and I’m happy that a few NGOs joined these efforts.”
