Steve Witkoff, the United States’ special envoy to the Middle East, visited an aid site in Rafah on Friday. His visit came as hunger and humanitarian needs in Gaza grow more serious.
Witkoff toured a new food distribution center operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). The visit lasted nearly five hours. He was joined by U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. They met with aid workers and local leaders involved in the GHF.
The GHF was set up earlier this year with Israeli backing. It aims to deliver aid outside of the traditional UN system. However, the foundation has faced criticism from the United Nations and international groups.
More than 1,000 Palestinians have reportedly died while trying to collect food. Many of these deaths happened near GHF-operated sites. The UN says the situation is extremely serious.
Steve Witkoff’s visit follows these troubling reports. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the trip and said its goal was to “get people fed.” He said that Witkoff had “a great meeting” with many people and that food was the main topic.
The aid site in Rafah is one of only three in Gaza managed by the GHF. Witnesses say there have been violent incidents at these locations. Some claim Israeli forces opened fire. Others report deadly stampedes as people rush to collect food.
The UN has distanced itself from the GHF model. It argues the system lacks neutrality and proper coordination. Still, Ambassador Huckabee defended it, saying GHF “delivers food without interference.”
Steve Witkoff’s visit has highlighted the need for urgent international action. Aid groups say Gaza’s malnutrition levels are at crisis point. They are calling for the creation of a safe and well-coordinated humanitarian corridor.
With more than 2 million people affected, the world is watching closely as efforts continue to bring relief to Gaza.
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