DUBAI, UAE (CP) – Boston Consulting Group terminated its contract with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation after helping establish the aid delivery program, as the U.S.-backed initiative faces distribution difficulties and leadership changes during its first week serving over 2 million Palestinians in need.
Boston Consulting Group has ended its involvement in a major humanitarian aid program designed to assist Palestinians in Gaza. The consulting firm, which helped create and operate the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation since last fall, withdrew its team and placed a senior partner on leave pending internal review. The foundation reported distributing nearly 6 million meals during its first operational week, with interim director John Acree stating the program proves their model effectively delivers assistance under emergency conditions.
The withdrawal comes amid several operational challenges facing the humanitarian initiative. Two senior executives have resigned from leadership positions, while major international organizations including the United Nations have declined to participate in the program. The foundation operates four distribution centers in southern Gaza, with three currently functioning for several hours each morning until daily food supplies are distributed to waiting families.
Sources familiar with both organizations suggest the foundation may face difficulties continuing operations without the consulting firm’s coordination of contractors and operational support. The program was established following an 11-week period when aid deliveries were suspended, with the goal of providing secure food distribution while preventing interference from militant groups. Armed contractors have been hired to protect convoys and oversee distribution sites as part of the security arrangements.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has intensified since conflict began in October 2023, with health officials reporting significant casualties during the ongoing situation. International aid organizations have expressed concerns about the program’s approach, with World Food Program officials emphasizing the need for complete access and peaceful resolution to address the crisis effectively. The foundation maintains that its model provides a viable means to deliver life-saving assistance under current emergency conditions, despite the operational challenges and organizational changes affecting the program’s implementation.