The United States is evaluating a new humanitarian aid proposal for Gaza that could replace the criticized U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), according to a plan reviewed by Reuters. The initiative, one of several options under consideration, aims to expand aid delivery amid a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that has lasted 13 days.
Central to the proposal is the creation of a “Gaza Humanitarian Belt,” comprising 12 to 16 aid hubs positioned along the Israeli withdrawal line inside Gaza. These hubs would distribute food, water, and medical supplies to civilians on both sides of the line while serving as reconciliation centers for militants surrendering weapons in exchange for amnesty. The plan also outlines future use of the hubs by an international stabilization force to help demilitarize the region.
The system would be managed through the Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC), which would monitor convoys via drones to prevent aid theft. Under the plan, all assistance in Gaza would flow through these hubs within 90 days. However, U.N. agencies and humanitarian organizations have expressed skepticism, comparing it to the GHF’s militarized aid model that raised neutrality concerns and accusations of forced displacement.
The proposal suggests the GHF would be absorbed or replaced by organizations such as the UAE and Morocco Red Cross and Samaritan’s Purse, an evangelical Christian aid group. A Samaritan’s Purse spokesperson confirmed discussions with U.S. officials but said specifics were still being developed.
The GHF, which recently halted operations and dismantled one of its four sites, stated it still intends to continue aid distribution through November. Meanwhile, U.N. and international aid groups, participating in ongoing discussions with the CMCC, reaffirmed their commitment to expanding humanitarian access to Gaza amid worsening conditions.