Individuals collaborating with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) aim to clarify the situation on the ground, almost two years into the conflict.
U.S. military veterans Jason Murray, Scott Weimer, and Brandon Zielinski are dedicated to assisting Palestinians in Gaza.
All three volunteers conveyed their pride in the work they are undertaking on the ground with GHF during their discussion with Digital.
Murray described the situation by stating, “We essentially constructed an aircraft while in mid-air… without any knowledge of our destination.”
GHF commenced its operations in May 2025, over eighteen months following the onset of the war. Despite difficulties in aid distribution within Gaza, Murray noted similarities to his military background, which has proven beneficial in his role as a GHF volunteer.
Weimer informed Digital that he perceived the opportunity as a “natural fit,” believing he could address a need in a manner others could not. He added that his and Murray’s service experience was well-suited to this environment, enabling them to identify individuals with appropriate skills and deploy them effectively.
Zielinski recounted that during his military service, he frequently participated in bilateral training where he often did not share a common language with his counterparts. He stated that his proficiency in navigating language barriers has been advantageous in his dealings with the (IDF), with whom GHF collaborates.
The three volunteers each described the extreme distress witnessed among hungry Palestinians seeking sustenance. They also detailed instances of malicious individuals exploiting the circumstances, such as Hamas members and gang members attempting to harm GHF personnel, particularly local Palestinians.
Murray offered Digital insights into the coordination between the IDF and GHF regarding preventing harmful individuals from accessing aid while ensuring needy civilians receive assistance.
Murray conveyed to Digital, “Our objective, from a security perspective, is to deliver aid safely and securely. Hamas operates in this region; we are aware of this. We’ve been informed through diverse channels, ‘Hamas was present here today.'”
He further added that GHF personnel do not underestimate the threat posed by Hamas.
Weimer reiterated Murray’s viewpoint, stating that while GHF personnel are aware of the underlying dangers, their primary focus is on delivering aid to those requiring it. He also commended Zielinski’s team for their efforts in repelling malevolent individuals attempting to obstruct GHF’s mission.
Referring to Zielinski and his team, Weimer remarked, “They are remarkable because the sheer number of individuals seeking food and assistance can sometimes be daunting. I have never witnessed any of us overreacting to what I believe anyone would consider a profoundly frightening situation.”
Before commencing their duties, Zielinski’s team typically receives a briefing from the IDF concerning the security landscape for approximately 48 hours preceding their shift. Zielinski informed Digital that he has observed modifications to the secure distribution sites (SDS) over time, necessitated by existing threats in the region.
Zielinski conveyed to Digital, “We have previously encountered pistols, AKs, and instances of grenades detonating.”
He further explained that his team identifies and documents patterns, subsequently submitting this information or relevant materials to intelligence officials to aid in apprehending malicious individuals.
Zielinski stated, “Later, we’ll realize, ‘Hey, we’ve encountered this person previously; he appeared highly suspicious,’ and then, unexpectedly, this individual is found to be carrying a pistol.”
Upon being questioned about what the American public ought to understand about the reality, the volunteers unanimously emphasized the importance of conducting thorough research.
Weimer expressed to Digital his displeasure with media portrayals of GHF, describing them as “wildly inaccurate.” He mentioned having contacted his family to advise them against “believing the hype.”
Weimer articulated, “My message to the American people would be that those of us here, these military veterans who have led honorable lives, would never participate in anything resembling what I’ve witnessed in the media. It genuinely sickens me; it’s profoundly distorted.”
Zielinski highlighted the profound dedication GHF volunteers bring to their work, noting that his colleagues in the conflict-affected area endeavor to provide all possible assistance to civilians requiring help.
Since its inception in May, GHF reports having supplied over 160 million meals to Palestinians requiring assistance. The organization has functioned in a highly challenging environment. Notwithstanding terrorist threats and global scrutiny, GHF reiterates its appeal for the international community to support its mission of providing food to those in distress.
Zielinski concluded, “Everyone desires to help, and everyone perceives the gratification derived from doing so… We all simply enjoy performing this work.”