Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest, known as 'Twiggy', has pledged $10 million to support Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, according to a statement from his non-profit organization, Minderoo, reported by Palestinian media.
The Minderoo Foundation's statement highlighted that the donation will benefit the Global Central Kitchen and the United Nations World Food Programme, emphasizing the urgent need to prevent children from starving.
Forrest, born on November 18, 1961, in Perth, is the second richest person in Australia with a net worth of $19 billion, as per Forbes. He has previously proposed a secure gateway system at the Gaza-Israel border to facilitate the daily delivery of 10,000 tons of humanitarian aid through 130 trucks.
In addition to this recent donation, Forrest has committed over $6 million in financial assistance to Gaza. His wealth primarily stems from his mining company, Fortescue Metals Group, which is one of the largest producers of iron ore used in steel manufacturing.
Forrest has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts, receiving honors such as the Officer of the Order of Australia and the Australian of the Year award. He has stated that the majority of his wealth will not be inherited by his children but will instead go to charitable causes.
This significant donation comes amid escalating humanitarian needs in Gaza, highlighting the urgent call for international support to address the crisis.