According to Israeli authorities, the affected groups did not provide "complete" personal details of their staff, among other unspecified deficiencies. The move has drawn sharp criticism from foreign ministers representing 10 countries, including the United Kingdom, who jointly condemned the new regulations as "restrictive" and "unacceptable."
The joint statement, issued by the foreign ministers of the UK, France, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Japan, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland, warned that the forced closure of INGO operations would "have a severe impact on access to essential services including healthcare." The ministers emphasized the "catastrophic" humanitarian situation in Gaza and urged the Israeli government to ensure INGOs can operate "in a sustained and predictable way."
Among the organizations facing suspension are well-known international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) such as ActionAid, the International Rescue Committee, and the Norwegian Refugee Council. The specific details of the new registration rules and the alleged deficiencies of the aid groups have not been fully disclosed by Israeli officials.
The decision comes amid ongoing concerns about humanitarian access to Gaza, particularly in light of recent conflicts and restrictions on the movement of people and goods. Aid organizations play a crucial role in providing essential services, including healthcare, food assistance, and shelter, to vulnerable populations in the region. The revocation of licenses for these 37 groups raises concerns about the potential impact on the delivery of aid and the well-being of those who rely on it.
The Israeli Ministry has not yet issued a detailed response to the joint statement from the foreign ministers. The next steps remain unclear, but diplomatic efforts are likely to continue in an attempt to resolve the dispute and ensure the continued operation of humanitarian organizations in Gaza and the West Bank.
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