The U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) announced it has begun distributing aid in the Gaza Strip, despite facing controversy and questions about its operations.

While GHF didn’t specify the quantity of food trucks involved, it confirmed that supplies had reached its distribution centers and were being disseminated throughout Gaza. The organization anticipates further truck arrivals on Wednesday.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that four aid distribution centers have been established in recent weeks to facilitate humanitarian aid entry into Gaza, following political directives and in close coordination with the U.S.

IDF spokesperson Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani said in a video that the initiative aims to allow thousands of Gazans daily access to aid directly, preventing Hamas from misusing aid intended for the population.

The organization faced significant scrutiny leading up to the distribution, compounded by the resignation of its executive director just hours before the operation commenced.

Jake Woods, the former executive director, resigned on Monday, citing the organization’s inability to uphold humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence.

Woods urged Israel to increase aid provisions into Gaza through all possible channels and called on all parties to explore innovative aid delivery methods without delay, diversion, or discrimination. He reiterated his belief that a sustainable solution requires Hamas to release all hostages, a cessation of hostilities, and a path toward peace, security, and dignity for all in the region.

Prior to Woods’ resignation, GHF’s distribution plan drew criticism due to reports of aid arriving at hubs guarded by armed contractors and the proximity of these hubs to Israeli military positions, with three located far south where few Palestinians reside.

The Associated Press reported that GHF stated the supply flow to Palestinians in Gaza would be “increasing each day.”

Woods’ concerns regarding GHF’s independence and impartiality are shared by others, as the organization has faced backlash due to Israel’s support. The and other aid groups have also voiced criticism.

A spokesperson from the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) suggested that GHF is “a distraction from what is actually needed.”

OCHA spokesperson Eri Kaneko told Digital that their position remains that this is a distraction, and aid operations must adhere to humanitarian principles and be scaled up to prevent famine and address the needs of all civilians in the Gaza Strip, as stated by Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, to the Security Council.

Digital reached out to the State Department and the Red Cross for comment, but has not yet received a response.

Trey Yingst contributed to this report.