US Senator condemns Trump’s government for mishandling Gaza’s assistance

(MENAFN) US Senator Jeanne Shaheen sharply criticized the Trump administration on Tuesday for bypassing established humanitarian groups in the Gaza Strip by allocating $30 million to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).

Expressing deep concern over the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where 76% of civilians are expected to face extreme hunger by September, Shaheen condemned the decision to fund the GHF without following the usual vetting processes or consulting Congress.

The GHF, launched on May 27 in Gaza with support from the US and Israel, has faced heavy criticism, with some calling its aid distribution sites “death traps.” Since US support for the GHF began, more than 700 starving individuals have died and nearly 5,000 have been injured while trying to access food at its sites, Shaheen noted. She also highlighted recent casualties during weekend attempts to reach aid in both northern and southern Gaza.

The senator raised concerns about the lack of oversight to ensure aid reaches those in need and to prevent food from being stolen, resold, or diverted to Hamas.

While emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire and hostage release, Shaheen stressed that the method of aid delivery is as important as the timing. She urged Congress to ensure that aid distribution is responsible and aligns with international humanitarian principles, calling for a return to trusted channels that maintain neutrality and avoid forced displacement to access food.

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