Key Developments
Israel has announced plans to restrict access for numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in Gaza, effective from 2026. The move targets NGOs that fail to provide a list of their Palestinian employees by the specified deadline. This decision has sparked international concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.
Who is Affected?
Approximately 15% of the NGOs working in Gaza will be impacted by this decision. Notable organizations such as ActionAid, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and Médicos Sin Fronteras (MSF) are among those affected.
Israel’s Rationale
The Israeli Ministry of Diaspora and Combating Anti-Semitism claims that this measure aims to prevent connections between humanitarian organizations and groups deemed terrorist by Israel. The ministry specifically cited instances of “delegitimizing Israel,” legal actions against Israeli soldiers, and denial of the October 7, 2023 attacks as grounds for revoking permits.
International Response
The decision comes amidst growing international warnings about the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Ten countries, including Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Japan, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, issued a joint statement expressing “serious concern” over civilian suffering and urging Israel to allow sustained and predictable NGO and UN work.
- What is the international community’s main concern? The international community is deeply concerned about the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, which they describe as “catastrophic.”
- What specific actions are the countries requesting? The countries are calling for the removal of restrictions on medical supplies and shelter imports, as well as opening border crossings to increase humanitarian aid flow into the Palestinian enclave.
Israel’s Counterargument
The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs dismissed the joint statement as “false but unsurprising” and part of a recurring pattern of distant criticisms and unilateral demands against Israel, while ignoring the essential requirement to disarm Hamas.
According to the 20-point agreement that enabled a fragile ceasefire in October, Israel is obligated to permit the delivery of “full humanitarian aid” to Gaza.
