How a US nonprofit ended up at the center of Gaza's aid controversy

Who's really feeding people in Gaza and at what cost

A once little-known U.S. nonprofit is delivering millions of meals in the middle of a war zone

It's called the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, and while it claims to be saving lives

its presence is sparking a global debate over who should control aid

and the true purpose behind the nonprofit. GHF is backed by the U.S. and Israel and received a $30 million boost

from the Trump administration on June 26. From day one, we said we are open to creative

solutions that securely provide aid to those in Gaza and protects Israel. This support is simply

the latest iteration of President Trump's and Secretary Rubio's pursuit of peace in the region

The group says it's distributed 46 million meals since May, but it's operating in a highly

militarized aid system that's drawing global criticism. Where there were once 400 distribution

points across Gaza, now there are just four. UN officials say at least 500 people have been killed

and nearly 4,000 injured while trying to get food under the current aid model. The non-profit

operates three sites in Rafah, all in evacuation zones. A fourth is near Gaza City, where hundreds

of thousands of displaced families are sheltering. The group describes itself as a direct response

charity. It registered in Delaware just weeks after Donald Trump began his second term

The BBC reports its address is tied to a basic incorporation service not a physical headquarters The board includes Nate Mook former CEO of World Central Kitchen

and Reverend Johnny Moore, a former White House faith advisor under Trump

Jake Wood was initially named executive director but resigned in May, saying the aid plan didn't align with core humanitarian values

Former U.S. aid response leader John Acri took over as interim director

He is now running operations alongside Chief Operating Officer David Burke. On the ground in Gaza, debate over who should control aid is growing louder

Israel wants to move away from UN-led relief, saying Hamas has stolen supplies meant for those in need

More than 170 humanitarian groups, including Oxfam and the UN, have condemned the current system, calling for a return to UN-led aid

In March, Israel paused all aid to Gaza as military operations resumed

The blockade was partially lifted in mid-May, paving the way for the GHF to assume the role as a primary aid provider

GHF says its distribution sites have been safe and that misleading headlines are scaring people away from aid

It shares daily updates on social media, highlighting truckloads of meals arriving without incident

but the need, they say, is overwhelming, and they're asking the UN and other groups to partner, not compete

For Straight Arrow News, I'm Kaylee Carey. For the full story, head to san.com or download the Straight Arrow News mobile app