U.S. Approves $30M Gaza Aid Amid Controversy Over Humanitarian Foundation

The U.S. State Department has approved a $30 million grant to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), marking its first direct financial contribution to the organization delivering aid in Gaza. The move, announced Thursday, comes despite internal debate and criticism surrounding the foundation’s operations.

State Department Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the funding reflects President Trump and Secretary Marco Rubio’s commitment to fostering peace in the region. The U.S. now urges other countries to support the group, which has faced scrutiny over its use of private U.S. military and logistics firms and lack of experience in humanitarian aid.

GHF, led by evangelical preacher and former Trump adviser Johnnie Moore, claims to have delivered over 46 million meals since launching operations in May. However, some U.S. officials remain skeptical, citing safety concerns near GHF aid sites and the organization’s exemption from standard USAID financial audits. The foundation has yet to publicly disclose its finances.

The United Nations reports more than 400 Palestinian deaths since the May 19 partial lifting of Israel’s aid blockade, many of them occurring while seeking assistance from either U.N. or GHF distribution centers. Earlier this month, GHF temporarily paused aid deliveries to demand improved civilian safety from Israeli forces.

Despite controversy, the U.S. may authorize additional $30 million monthly grants to GHF, according to sources familiar with the decision. The funding comes as Gaza continues to suffer from widespread displacement, food shortages, and devastation after nearly two years of Israeli military operations. The Biden administration’s decision signals a shift toward alternative humanitarian channels amid escalating regional instability and limited international access.