UN accused of ‘shakedown’ against NGOs working with US-backed Gaza aid group

Israeli United Nations Ambassador Danny Danon has issued a scathing condemnation of the United Nations, accusing the world body of engaging in a “shakedown” to prevent Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) from working with the new U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). During a recent address to the U.N. Security Council, Danon criticized the organization for using “threats, intimidation and retaliation” against NGOs that chose to collaborate with GHF, describing the U.N.’s actions as “mafia-like.”

Danon highlighted the U.N.’s removal of NGOs from the shared aid database without discussion or due process, labeling it as a violation of the U.N.’s own principles. He accused the U.N. of engaging in extortion against well-meaning NGOs that refused to comply with the organization’s call to boycott GHF. In response to the U.N.’s actions, Danon issued a scathing letter in which he denounced the U.N.’s tactics.

Acting U.S. Alternate Representative John Kelley also voiced support for GHF during the Security Council meeting, urging the U.N. to work with the U.S. and Israel to establish agreements that would benefit all parties involved. Kelley emphasized the need to prevent Hamas from exploiting any humanitarian aid distribution system put in place.

Despite the challenges faced by GHF, the organization announced that it had successfully opened another secure aid distribution site without incident. GHF refuted claims that Palestinians had been questioned, detained, shot, or killed while receiving aid, stating that all food supplies were distributed without any interference. The organization acknowledged the difficult conditions in Gaza and reaffirmed its commitment to providing lifesaving assistance to those in need.

While GHF continues its humanitarian efforts in Gaza, the international community, including U.N. Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, remains critical of the organization. Fletcher has urged the U.N. to take control of aid distribution in Gaza, dismissing GHF’s plan as a “fig leaf for further violence and displacement” of Palestinians.

Despite the opposition from some U.N. officials, Israel has allowed aid trucks from the U.N. and the international community to enter Gaza, providing much-needed food and supplies to the region. As the situation in Gaza remains dire, GHF is determined to overcome challenges and fulfill its mission of delivering aid to those in need.

In conclusion, the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza highlight the urgent need for cooperation and support from the international community. While obstacles persist, organizations like GHF are committed to providing essential aid to vulnerable populations, despite facing opposition and challenges along the way.