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France urges end to Gaza humanitarian foundation operations amid crisis
The French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, has called for the immediate cessation of activities by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), an organization backed by the United States and Israel. Speaking during a visit to Cyprus on July 31, Barrot condemned the foundation’s methods of aid distribution, which he described as militarized and responsible for deadly chaos at distribution sites in Gaza.
Barrot denounced the “bloodshed” caused by GHF’s operations, labeling it a “scandal and a disgrace.” He further urged an immediate halt to hostilities in the region and demanded the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Insufficient measures and mounting casualties
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, established only months ago and based in Geneva, presents itself as an alternative to traditional aid systems. Its stated goal is to deliver assistance directly to those in need. However, data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights indicates that over 1,000 Palestinians have been killed near GHF distribution sites since its operations began, with three-quarters of the deaths occurring at or near its bases.
Barrot criticized Israeli authorities for taking “very insufficient” measures to address the crisis, even as humanitarian aid gradually returns to the Gaza Strip.
France leads humanitarian efforts
In response to the crisis, France has pledged to deliver 40 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Barrot announced that starting August 1, France, in coordination with Jordanian authorities, would carry out four airlifts of food supplies, each transporting 10 tons of aid. This operation follows Israel's recent authorization of humanitarian pauses in combat to facilitate aid delivery in specific areas.
Global scrutiny intensifies
The GHF faces mounting criticism from international organizations. Human Rights Watch and other NGOs have highlighted the chaos and violence surrounding its aid distribution, calling for immediate changes. Meanwhile, Barrot has reiterated the need for a long-term political solution to address the escalating humanitarian crisis, emphasizing the urgency of protecting civilian lives.