U.S. Says Gaza Aid Plan ‘Steps Away’ Amid Skepticism from Humanitarian Groups

The U.S. State Department said on Thursday that a new mechanism for delivering food aid to Gaza is “steps away,” with an official announcement expected soon. However, humanitarian organizations remain doubtful the plan will meaningfully address the urgent needs of Gaza’s war-torn population.

After 19 months of Israeli military operations against Hamas, Gaza's infrastructure has been decimated, leaving its 2.3 million residents displaced multiple times. Aid groups and European leaders have voiced concern over Israeli proposals to control humanitarian aid distribution using private contractors, following months of supply blockades.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce offered limited details but referenced a new “charitable foundation” expected to lead the initiative. A leaked document obtained by Reuters outlines plans for a recently-formed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation to establish four Secure Distribution Sites, each supporting 300,000 people with food, hygiene kits, and medical supplies.

To prevent aid diversion, the plan includes secure corridors and third-party security forces—without involvement from the Israeli military. Yet, aid groups warn the plan risks militarizing aid and placing civilians in harm's way.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs criticized the Israeli-led model as “practically unfeasible,” warning it could violate humanitarian principles and international law. The Norwegian Refugee Council also raised concerns, calling it unprecedented and coercive for a conflict party to dictate aid delivery.

A Geneva-based aid official called the U.S.-backed proposal underwhelming, while a UN Security Council diplomat said members are watching closely. If progress stalls, the Council’s non-permanent members may intervene with new proposals.

With pressure mounting and skepticism growing, the success of the proposed Gaza aid plan remains uncertain amid ongoing humanitarian and political challenges.