South African Humanitarian Faces Backlash for Palestine Support Amid Pro-Israel Criticism
Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, says his focus is purely humanitarian, not political.
Johannesburg, South Africa – Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, the founder of South Africa’s renowned humanitarian organization Gift of the Givers, has become a target of criticism from pro-Israeli groups due to his outspoken support for Palestine amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. Sooliman, a former medical doctor, has been deeply involved in humanitarian efforts in Gaza, offering aid to Palestinians for decades. His commitment to providing assistance to those in need, regardless of political affiliation, has earned him respect globally.
At a rally in Cape Town’s Sea Point in October, Sooliman passionately shared updates about the aid his organization has been providing in Gaza. He spoke about the personal losses his team in Gaza has faced during the Israeli airstrikes and criticized Israel’s actions, describing the situation as a “bloody dangerous” crisis with no clear resolution. “Human need transcends political affiliation,” Sooliman asserted, stressing his humanitarian approach to the issue.
Gift of the Givers, which Sooliman founded in 1992, has grown into South Africa’s most prominent aid agency, responding to crises locally and internationally. The organization has delivered over $319 million in aid across 47 countries, with a focus on disasters, poverty alleviation, and medical support. Despite the charity's wide-reaching efforts, Sooliman has faced intense scrutiny for his vocal criticism of Israel, particularly after the bombing of Gaza's al-Ahli Hospital.
In response to accusations from some pro-Israel groups, which unfoundedly alleged that Sooliman’s organization supported terrorist groups, he has firmly denied these claims. He called the accusations "baseless" and emphasized that his work has always been rooted in providing humanitarian aid without any political or religious agenda.
The attacks on Sooliman have sparked a backlash, with many in South Africa and beyond showing support for his work. Politicians, business leaders, and ordinary citizens have rallied behind Gift of the Givers, noting the organization’s impartiality and its long history of helping communities in need regardless of race, religion, or nationality.
Despite the pressure, Sooliman remains undeterred, asserting that his focus is on helping those affected by crises, from Gaza to South Africa’s poverty-stricken regions. “People are suffering, and we must respond. It’s that simple,” he said.
Gift of the Givers’ commitment to neutrality has allowed it to operate in conflict zones like Palestine, Syria, and Somalia, where other aid organizations might face difficulties due to political pressures. Sooliman’s leadership and dedication to humanitarian work have earned him admiration, though his stance on Palestine has undoubtedly attracted controversy from those who view his position as politically charged.
As Sooliman continues to speak out for Palestinian rights, he remains confident that the true mission of Gift of the Givers will endure: to provide aid to those who need it most, regardless of political or ideological differences.