Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of the renowned African aid agency Gift of the Givers, has become the target of pro-Israel criticism due to his unwavering support for Palestinians amidst the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Despite the backlash, Sooliman insists his work is purely humanitarian and not political, reports Al Jazeera.
In October 2023, at a rally in Cape Town’s Sea Point promenade, Sooliman addressed thousands of protesters enraged by what they termed Israel’s genocide in Gaza. He passionately described the devastation experienced by his team in Gaza, who had lost family members during the assault, emphasising the 75-year struggle for Palestinian justice.
“Zionists have always acted with arrogance and impunity, accusing critics of anti-Semitism to silence them. But I say to them: find a new narrative. That excuse is dull, boring, and outdated,” Sooliman declared, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd.
The Al Jazeera report says that Sooliman, a trained medical doctor, founded Gift of the Givers in 1992 after a spiritual journey to Türkiye inspired him to serve humanity. Over the last three decades, the organisation has grown into South Africa’s most prominent aid agency, operating in 47 countries and addressing crises ranging from natural disasters to armed conflicts.
The organisation, funded by corporate donors and private individuals, employs 600 people and has distributed aid worth over 6 billion South African rand ($319 million). Their work spans regions such as Palestine, Somalia, Yemen, and Syria.
Despite his focus on humanitarianism, Sooliman’s vocal criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza has drawn the ire of pro-Israel groups. Following the bombing of al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza, he condemned the Israeli government in a series of interviews, calling the situation in Gaza “the worst in the world.”
Pro-Israel lobby groups launched a campaign against Sooliman, accusing him of funding “terror groups” and pursuing an “Islamist agenda” – claims he firmly denies. Efforts were made to disrupt the NGO’s operations, including calls for banks to investigate its funding.
Lawrence Nowosenetz, a former member of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies, even petitioned to prevent Sooliman from delivering a prestigious lecture. Unfounded accusations also surfaced in The Times of Israel and social media, with figures like musician David Scott labelling him a “radical Islamist.”
However, the campaign backfired as government officials, activists, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens rallied behind Sooliman. The Helen Suzman Foundation supported his right to deliver the lecture, which he did in November 2024.
“Whenever there’s a crisis – whether it’s drought-stricken farmers, flood victims, or impoverished communities – Gift of the Givers steps in to help everyone, regardless of their background,” noted one social media user, summing up public sentiment.
Sooliman’s approach to humanitarianism is rooted in neutrality, refusing to take political sides even in conflict zones. His team has worked under challenging conditions in regions like Syria and Somalia, often negotiating with armed groups to continue providing aid.
“Our work is driven by human need, not politics. That has been our recipe for success,” Sooliman told Al Jazeera.
Despite the challenges, his dedication remains unshaken. From responding to floods in South Africa to delivering aid in Gaza, his life revolves around humanitarian crises. “Disaster work is 365 days a year,” he joked, recalling how he once left his daughter’s wedding to handle a crisis.
Since his first aid mission to Palestine in 2002, Sooliman has consistently expanded his organisation’s efforts in the region. From medical aid and hospital upgrades to establishing bakeries and desalination plants, Gift of the Givers has been a lifeline for Palestinians.
For Sooliman, the backlash against him is part of a broader effort to silence critics of Israeli policies. “They targeted us to send a message to others not to stand against them. But they failed,” he said confidently.
His sincerity and unwavering commitment have earned widespread respect. Journalist Ferial Haffajee described Gift of the Givers as a “marker of what is good in the world,” while fellow humanitarian Azhar Vadi highlighted how Sooliman’s actions foster love and solidarity across divides.
As conflicts and crises continue worldwide, Sooliman remains steadfast in his mission: “Our work is about serving humanity, nothing more and nothing less.”
