Organizers and non-profits attempting to raise funds to respond to the apocalyptic humanitarian situation in Gaza and assist families trying to leave Rafah have criticized the "heavy-handed moderation" of GoFundMe. It has allegedly slowed down aid efforts, and their inconsistent policies have left organizers and donors confused. Organizers criticized the lack of urgency in the GoFundMe's handling of the funds when these funds are likely the difference between life and death for the Palestinians stuck in the besieged strip.

Like all US companies, GoFundMe must comply with recent government sanctions against Hamas officials and others in the wake of the October 7th attacks. GoFundMe stated to us that their approach to Gaza "is the same as all global crises where there are sanctions and limitations on the flow of money involved".

"The roadblocks — both literal and digital — that prohibit Palestinians from receiving aid reveal what otherwise might go unnoticed: there’s a complex web of red tape and corporate interests that undergird the supposedly seamless digital transfers that happen online every day."