10 BLESSED DAYS

HCI Withdraws from New Israeli Aid Mechanism into Gaza

After weeks of preparation and coordination, HCI was set to dispatch 17 trucks carrying food and hygiene aid to Gaza by the end of this week. Despite our readiness, we have made the most difficult but necessary decision: to withdraw from the new Israeli-controlled humanitarian aid mechanism.
 
This decision was not taken lightly. It reflects our unwavering commitment to the safety of our partners on the ground, the dignity of the people we serve, and our responsibility not to be complicit in the weaponization of humanitarian aid.
  1. The aid mechanism relies on militarized distribution centers and private security—undermining the neutrality that humanitarian work depends on.
  2. Hubs are mainly located in southern Gaza, raising concerns about pressuring people to relocate, which will facilitate forced displacement.
  3. It also excludes established aid organizations, including the UN and long-serving NGOs, and is unlikely to reach the most vulnerable—those who are elderly, sick, or unable to travel.

As UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher said, the plan is “a fig leaf for further violence and displacement.”

From the very beginning of this genocide, HCI has stood with the people of Gaza. We cannot, in good conscience, participate in a process that undermines humanitarian principles and puts lives at further risk. Our work is rooted in the values of humanity, impartiality, and independence—and we will continue to uphold those values, even when it means making painful decisions.

We remain committed to delivering lifesaving assistance through principled, safe, and rights-based channels.

How is Aid Getting to Gaza Then?

  1. We are purchasing goods from within Gaza and distributing them directly to our right holders—ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most. We will continue this approach as long as supplies are available. A single bag of flour now costs nearly $800, but you can sponsor one for a family for just $250.
  2. In 2025, our primary health clinic continues to reach approximately 2,750 direct patients per month—benefiting an estimated 14,916 indirect beneficiaries monthly.
  3. Between October 2024 and April 2025, our Maternal Emergency Health Intervention has reached 29,763 pregnant women with critical care—and this life-saving support is ongoing.
  4. Through our Child Sponsorship Program, we provide food, shelter, healthcare, and psychosocial support to 1,000 orphaned children and 3,233 family members.