We can't feed everyone, says aid group backed by Israel

The organisation backed by Israel to take over food distribution in Gaza has admitted it would not be able to feed some of the most vulnerable civilians from the militarised compounds it plans to set up.

- Emma Graham-Harrison

Aid groups and the UN have already refused to work with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a Swiss-registered organisation led by a former US marine. They say it does not have the capacity to end hunger in Gaza and - by undermining their neutrality - would make it harder for them to help civilians in other wars.

Israel has not announced its plans, but GHF statements and briefings from Israeli officials envisage up to five militarised distribution centres in southern Gaza, run by private security companies and overseen by Israeli troops. GHF is in "advanced discussions" with Israel on details and timing and hopes to have news soon, a person involved with planning at the foundation said.

Heads of household would be expected to collect boxes weighing up to 20kg with several days' supply of food and basic hygiene items like soap for their families.

There is no provision for those too sick or weakened by famine to walk long distances across Gaza's ruined landscape with heavy loads.

"From what we have understood, the plan would increase the ongoing suffering of children and families in the Gaza Strip," said Unicef spokesman Jonathan Crickx.