Israels NGO ban sparks fears of devastating impact on Palestinians in Gaza

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Israel Plans to Ban 37 International NGOs Providing Aid to Gaza

A ban on 37 international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) providing aid to Gaza is set to take effect on Thursday. The move, which includes groups such as Doctors Without Borders and the Norwegian Refugee Council, has sparked concerns among displaced Palestinians in the territory.

The ban is part of new regulations requiring NGOs to disclose details about their staff and work. Israel claims this measure is necessary to prevent organizations from being linked to Hamas.

However, aid workers and officials are warning that the ban will severely impact the delivery of life-saving assistance and services to those in need. “There is no alternative” to international aid organizations, said Siraj al-Masri, a Palestinian resident of Khan Younis. “We have no income, no money,” he stated.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with many medical facilities remaining operational only due to the presence of humanitarian organizations. The ban has been condemned by several countries, including Canada, France, Japan, and the United Kingdom, which released a joint statement urging Israel to ensure NGOs can operate sustainably.

The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) has also expressed concern over the move, stating it sets a “dangerous precedent” that undermines humanitarian principles. The agency’s chief, Philippe Lazzarini, warned that failing to push back against such attempts will further compromise aid operations.

In 2025, Israel approved measures to ban UNRWA and curtail its work in Gaza. The latest decision appears to be part of a pattern of disregard for international humanitarian law and increasing impediments to aid operations.

Source: Al Jazeera