Destroyed buildings in the Gaza Strip on May 20, 2025. (Credit: Jack Guez/AFP)
Swiss authorities said Sunday they are considering whether to open a legal investigation into the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a U.S.-backed organization set to oversee aid distribution in the war-torn Palestinian territory.
The move follows a legal request submitted by TRIAL International, a Switzerland-based nonprofit, questioning the foundation’s compliance with Swiss and international humanitarian law. The group filed two submissions on May 20 and 21 to the Swiss Federal Supervisory Authority for Foundations and the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).
The United Nations has publicly opposed the GHF’s plan, saying it lacks neutrality and impartiality, and risks forcing further displacement while exposing thousands to harm.
The GHF, registered in Switzerland, has said it plans to begin work in Gaza by the end of May. In a statement to Reuters, the group said it “strictly adheres” to humanitarian principles and would not support any form of forced civilian relocation.
The FDFA confirmed it received the submissions and said it is examining whether the GHF was required to submit a declaration under Swiss law regarding its use of private security firms to distribute aid — and whether that declaration, if needed, had been approved.
The federal supervisory board said it cannot assess whether a foundation complies with its statutes until it begins operations.
The GHF told Reuters that while its use of private security marks a shift from traditional aid models, the measure is meant to ensure that assistance is not diverted to Hamas or criminal groups.
Israel has resumed limited aid deliveries to Gaza this week after halting them entirely on March 2.
Israel continues attacks on southern Lebanon, demolishes buildings in Bint Jbeil