Aid Groups Report Escalating Humanitarian Crisis
The head of a major aid coalition told the UN Security Council that the US-supported Board of Peace is failing in Gaza and reinforcing Israel’s unlawful presence in the territory. Athena Rayburn, executive director of the Association of International Development Agencies, delivered the warning during a council session on Thursday, stating the mechanism has not protected civilians or advanced peace.
Rayburn said the Board of Peace, established with US backing, has not halted hostilities or ensured humanitarian access. Instead, she argued, it has operated in a way that legitimizes Israel’s continued control over Gaza. She noted that aid groups on the ground report worsening conditions despite the board’s existence. The AIDA leader emphasized that the current approach fails to address root causes of the conflict.
How Can International Mechanisms Better Protect Civilians?
Rayburn cited repeated warnings from NGOs operating in Gaza about collapsing health services, food shortages, and displacement. She said the Board of Peace has not pressed for meaningful ceasefires or accountability for violations of international law. According to her, the body’s statements often come after damage is done, lacking preventive action. Rayburn urged the Security Council to reassess the board’s mandate and effectiveness.
The aid chief questioned whether current diplomatic tools are suited to rapidly evolving conflicts like the one in Gaza. She suggested that mechanisms must include enforceable timelines for humanitarian access and clear consequences for non-compliance. Rayburn also called for greater inclusion of local civil society in peace processes. She stressed that without structural changes, similar failures will recur in future crises.
What is the Board of Peace? The Board of Peace is a US-backed initiative established to support diplomatic efforts and humanitarian coordination in Gaza, though critics say it has not stopped violence or eased suffering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Athena Rayburn say it is failing? She argues the board has not halted hostilities, ensured aid delivery, or challenged Israel’s unlawful presence, instead functioning to entrench the status quo.
What does she recommend for improvement? Rayburn calls for enforceable humanitarian access rules, accountability for violations, and greater inclusion of local groups in decision-making to make mechanisms more effective.