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, the International Rescue Committee, Médecins Sans Frontières, and the Norwegian Refugee Council, to cease operations within 60 days.
Israeli authorities stated that the INGOs had not provided "complete" personal details of their staff, among other requirements. The INGOs contend that providing such information could endanger their personnel.
Ten countries have condemned the decision, warning of its severe impact on 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 integral role of INGOs in the humanitarian response in Gaza, deeming any attempt to curtail their operations "unacceptable." They asserted that "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 occupied Palestinian territories, encompassing the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip, have been a focal point of geopolitical tensions for decades. The international community, with the exception of Israel, considers the West Bank and Gaza Strip to be occupied territory, a status that imposes specific obligations on Israel under international humanitarian law. The United Nations has repeatedly affirmed the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and an independent state.
The INGOs play a crucial role in providing humanitarian assistance, development aid, and advocacy for human rights in the region. Their work includes providing healthcare, education, food assistance, and shelter to vulnerable populations, as well as advocating for the rights of Palestinians under international law.
The revocation of licenses raises concerns about the potential disruption of vital aid and services to Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, where the humanitarian situation is already dire due to years of conflict and blockade. The move is likely to further strain relations between Israel and the international community, which has long called for greater access and protection for humanitarian organizations operating in the occupied Palestinian territories. The immediate impact on the ground remains to be seen, but aid organizations are scrambling to assess the implications and explore potential avenues for continuing their work.
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