Israel is set to revoke the licenses of 37 international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) operating in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, citing their failure to comply with new registration regulations. The suspension, scheduled to take effect on January 1, will require the affected organizations, including ActionAid, International Rescue Committee, Médecins Sans Frontières, and the Norwegian Refugee Council, to cease operations within 60 days.

Israeli authorities stated that the INGOs did not provide "complete" personal details of their staff, among other requirements. The INGOs argue that providing such information could endanger their personnel.

The decision has drawn condemnation from ten countries, who warned of the severe consequences for access to essential services in the region. In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the UK, France, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Japan, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland emphasized the crucial role of INGOs in the humanitarian response in Gaza. They deemed any attempts to hinder their operations as "unacceptable," adding, "Without them, it will be impossible to meet all urgent needs at the scale required." The European Union's humanitarian chief echoed these concerns.

The revocation of licenses occurs against a backdrop of ongoing tensions between Israel and international organizations operating in Palestinian territories. Israel has long maintained that some organizations are biased against it and has accused some of supporting or being linked to terrorist groups, allegations the organizations strongly deny. These accusations have fueled debates about the balance between Israel's security concerns and the need for humanitarian aid in the region.

Gaza, in particular, faces a dire humanitarian situation, exacerbated by years of blockade and conflict. The United Nations and other international bodies have repeatedly warned of the deteriorating living conditions in the territory, where a majority of the population relies on humanitarian assistance. The West Bank also faces challenges related to the ongoing Israeli occupation and restrictions on movement and access.

The new registration rules and their enforcement are seen by some as part of a broader effort by Israel to exert greater control over the activities of international organizations operating in the region. Critics argue that these measures will further restrict the flow of aid and undermine efforts to address the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian population. The situation remains fluid, and the international community is closely monitoring the potential impact of the license revocations on the ground.