Suppressed USAID Warnings: Gaza’s Humanitarian Crisis Revealed

In early 2024, USAID staff warned of Northern Gaza's dire humanitarian crisis. Despite graphic reports, U.S. embassy officials blocked wider distribution, citing lack of balance in reports on deteriorating conditions from Israel’s military actions. The situation caused internal U.S. government tensions and political divisions over Israel's response.

In early 2024, USAID staff issued a warning to senior officials in President Joe Biden's administration about severe shortages in Northern Gaza, describing the area as an 'Apocalyptic Wasteland.' The warning, based on United Nations findings, highlighted the region's dire humanitarian crisis following Israel's military actions.

Despite the alarming content, U.S. ambassador Jack Lew and deputy Stephanie Hallett blocked the cable, arguing it lacked balance. Former U.S. officials described how the cable depicted gruesome scenes and dire needs for food and water. The move raised questions about transparency and the U.S. response to the Gaza situation.

These events unfolded amid internal tensions within the U.S. government over aiding Gaza and political debates about supporting Israel. The blocked cable, alongside other suppressed reports, sparked discussions about U.S. foreign policy and the handling of humanitarian information from conflict zones.

(With inputs from agencies.)