Palestinians in Gaza expressed deep concern Wednesday over an impending Israeli ban on numerous international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in the territory, warning of potentially devastating consequences for the already vulnerable population. The ban threatens to cut off vital assistance and services to displaced and besieged Palestinians struggling to survive amidst widespread destruction.

Siraj al-Masri, a Palestinian resident of Khan Younis, told Al Jazeera that the aid organizations are indispensable, stating, "There is no alternative" to the support they provide. He emphasized the dire economic situation, saying, "We have no income, no money," and questioned where people would turn for help if the NGOs were forced to cease operations.

The planned ban comes as Gaza continues to grapple with the aftermath of recent conflicts, leaving its infrastructure decimated and its healthcare system on the brink of collapse. The United Nations and other international bodies have repeatedly warned of a humanitarian crisis in the region, exacerbated by restricted access and ongoing security concerns. The ban raises fears that the situation will deteriorate further, particularly for the injured and those requiring medical attention, with al-Masri noting the scarcity of functional medical facilities.

Israel has defended its decision by alleging that some of the targeted organizations have ties to terrorist groups, or that they promote activities hostile to the state. These claims have been met with skepticism by many international observers and human rights advocates, who argue that the ban is a politically motivated attempt to silence criticism of Israeli policies and to further isolate Gaza.

The international community has long been divided on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with differing perspectives on the root causes of the conflict and the appropriate solutions. Many countries and organizations provide humanitarian aid to the Palestinian territories, while also engaging in diplomatic efforts to promote a peaceful resolution. The European Union, a major donor to the Palestinian territories, has expressed concern over the potential impact of the ban and has called on Israel to ensure that humanitarian assistance can continue to reach those in need.

The ban is expected to take effect in the coming weeks, pending final approval from Israeli authorities. The affected NGOs are currently assessing their options, including legal challenges and appeals to international bodies. The United Nations is reportedly engaging with both sides in an effort to find a solution that will allow humanitarian assistance to continue without interruption. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further escalation and a worsening of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.