Chief of controversial Gaza aid programme resigns hours before launch
Washington: Jake Wood, executive director of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has resigned just hours before the launch of a highly contentious new aid programme in Gaza. His resignation has intensified scrutiny of the programme, which has already drawn criticism over its ties to Israel and its potential humanitarian consequences.
Wood’s departure was first reported by The New York Times, which cited his concerns over the lack of independence and adherence to core humanitarian principles. In a statement distributed by the foundation, Wood asserted that the programme could not be implemented while upholding the values of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence, principles he said he refuses to compromise.
The aid initiative, spearheaded by the newly established Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, was scheduled to begin operations Monday. It involves private contractors, including one firm reportedly run by a former CIA officer and plans to distribute food from four centres located in southern Gaza, all in areas under Israeli military control.
The project has faced stiff opposition from the traditional aid sector, including the United Nations. Critics argue that the programme may be part of a strategy to forcibly displace Palestinians from northern to southern Gaza, compelling civilians to traverse dangerous military zones to access aid.
While supporters claim the initiative aims to ensure secure and direct food access for civilians, while minimizing Hamas interference in aid distribution, detractors warn it could deepen the humanitarian crisis.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Tribal couple, son hacked to death over witchcraft suspicion in Jharkhand's Godda
Godda (Jharkhand) (PTI): A tribal couple and their minor son were allegedly hacked to death by their relatives in Jharkhand's Godda district over suspicion of practising witchcraft, police said on Tuesday.
The incident took place in Danga Tola under Deodanr police station area late on Monday and police recovered their bodies on Tuesday.
"A tribal couple and their minor son were hacked to death at Danga Tola in Godda. Preliminary investigation suggests the victims were killed over suspicion of practising witchcraft," Godda Sub-divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Ashok Ravidas told PTI.
Three persons have been arrested so far, he said.
"Police have arrested three persons in this connection. During initial interrogation, the accused told the police that they suspected that the victims were practising witchcraft," the SDPO said.
The axe used to kill them has also been recovered, and further investigation into the matter is underway, he said.
Deodanr police station officer-in-charge Amit Marki said the deceased tribal couple has been identified as Darbari Murmu (55) and his wife Maki Baski (50).
Their deceased son was around 12 years old. The bodies have been sent to Sadar Hospital in Godda for post-mortem examination.
