A young Gazan boy identified as ‘Amir’ became the subject of international attention after former GHF employee Anthony Aguilar claimed he was killed by IDF forces at a distribution site in May. However, recent developments have revealed that the child, whose actual name is Abdul Rahim Muhammad Hamden, is alive and has been safely evacuated from the Gaza Strip. His mother, Najlaa, was also extracted under secure conditions to protect their safety, though the location remains undisclosed.
Aguilar’s story, which he shared in various interviews, included graphic details of the boy’s encounter with him. He described an emotional moment where the child kissed his hand and expressed gratitude for the supplies he received. However, internal investigations by the GHF uncovered discrepancies in the footage he provided, suggesting the account was fabricated. The foundation contested the narrative, pointing out that the interaction did not occur as described and that the footage contradicted the claims.
The GHF’s investigation not only focused on verifying the incident’s validity but also addressed concerns over potential threats from Hamas, which had a vested interest in the boy’s disappearance. The organization’s efforts led to the successful identification and rescue of the boy, utilizing facial recognition and biometric data to confirm his identity. His return to his mother marks a significant outcome amid the controversy surrounding Aguilar’s alleged falsehoods.
Aguilar has faced backlash for his statements, with the GHF describing him as a ‘disgruntled former employee’ who was terminated for his erratic behavior and conflicts with staff. His claims have been criticized as libel, and the organization emphasized that the boy’s survival was a critical aspect of their investigation. As the situation unfolds, the GHF continues to address the implications of the incident, ensuring transparency and accountability in their operations.