Australian Billionaire Andrew Forrest Donates $10 Million to Gaza Relief
In a significant humanitarian gesture, Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest has pledged $10 million to aid Palestinians suffering in the Gaza Strip. This donation, reported by Anadolu Agency, will be directed towards the World Central Kitchen and the United Nations World Food Program, organizations dedicated to providing essential food supplies to those in need. Forrest's non-governmental organization, Mendero, emphasized their commitment to addressing the dire situation, stating, "Mendero will not stand idly by while children die of hunger."
Previous Initiatives and Proposals by Forrest
Forrest's dedication to alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is not new. Earlier this year, he proposed the establishment of a "safe gate system" at the Gaza-Israel border, which would facilitate the daily delivery of 10,000 tons of humanitarian aid via 130 trucks. This initiative aimed to streamline the distribution of essential supplies to the beleaguered region. To date, Forrest has contributed over $6 million in financial aid to Gaza, underscoring his ongoing commitment to humanitarian efforts in the area.
The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The backdrop of Forrest's donation is the escalating humanitarian disaster in Gaza, exacerbated by ongoing violence since October 7, 2023. Reports indicate that over 138,000 Palestinians have been killed or wounded, with a significant portion being children and women. The situation has drawn international condemnation, as Israel continues its military actions despite calls from the UN Security Council and the International Court of Justice to cease hostilities and improve conditions for civilians. The conflict has resulted in widespread famine and destruction, marking one of the worst humanitarian crises in modern history.
