(NewsNation) – During a recent visit to an aid distribution site, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee raised concerns about the potential for starvation in Gaza. This comment comes in the wake of discussions about the U.S. government’s involvement in humanitarian efforts in the region.
In an appearance on “Elizabeth Vargas Reports” this Tuesday, Huckabee reiterated claims that Hamas is diverting aid intended for civilians.
When asked about the situation in Gaza, Huckabee acknowledged the presence of food scarcity, saying, “I think there is certainly hunger and deprivation and possibly starvation, particularly in the northern areas controlled by Hamas.” This statement follows a warning from United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres about Gaza being on the brink of famine.
“I don’t understand why so many world leaders are putting all the pressure on Israel,” Huckabee stated.
He explained that while food supplies exist, they often don’t reach those in need due to thefts. According to him, 87% of the aid brought in, by the UN’s own evaluation, gets looted or taken off the trucks, a process he describes as “self-distribution.”
However, Vargas challenged Huckabee’s assertion, referencing a U.S. government report which indicated that only a fraction of food is stolen by Hamas. Huckabee maintained his stance, insisting that he wasn’t fabricating the numbers.
“Yes, there’s a problem, yet I do believe a significant amount of food is being brought in, only to be hijacked by Hamas who sells it to those in need. It’s a catastrophe,” Huckabee pointed out.
Local officials from the World Food Program emphasized how dire conditions are in northern Gaza, indicating that these areas are among the harshest. Yet, Huckabee portrayed a different reality based on his observations at the humanitarian aid locations.
He suggested that some organizations hesitated to distribute available food for fear of safety, despite provisions that could support Gaza for two years.
“I saw a considerably different scenario regarding the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s method of providing food to those in need,” he remarked.
While acknowledging that the outreach program isn’t flawless, Huckabee credited it with effectively reaching those who are hungry, emphasizing the necessity to ensure that Hamas doesn’t intercept the deliveries.
Despite internal turmoil reports from Gaza, Huckabee affirmed the U.S.’s proactive role in the humanitarian response, referencing that the GHF has delivered over 106 million meals in just two months.
“People often question if the U.S. is stepping up; well, we are, despite the hurdles we’ve faced,” he stressed. “Claims of mass chaos and trampled victims are exaggerated, with much of that information sourced from the Gaza Health Ministry.”
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