Israel Tightens Restrictions on Aid Groups in Gaza
AMMAN, Jordan — Following a ban on the United Nations relief agency for Palestinian refugees from operating in Gaza, Israel has introduced unprecedented measures to deregister significant non-governmental organizations (NGOs) based on ideological grounds, as reported by officials from humanitarian organizations.
These new protocols threaten major international NGOs, known as INGOs, by hampering their ability to deliver aid and staff to both Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank. An official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, noted that many organizations face difficulties in the application process, where most applications result in rejection or remain unaddressed.
Despite a ceasefire agreement brokered by President Trump, which aimed to enhance aid flow into Gaza — where food security assessments have deemed parts of the area as experiencing famine — Israel continues to impose stringent restrictions on aid shipments. Currently, only two of the seven Israeli border crossings into Gaza are operational, and many aid requests are routinely denied without clarification.
NGO Registration Challenges
The Israeli military alleges that these restrictions are necessary for security. This fall, it began mandating that all international aid organizations re-register under new standards, which involve review by a committee that includes members from Israel’s Ministry for Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism.
Reasons for the delisting of aid groups include accusations of supporting “terrorist organizations and activities” and “inciting racism,” as articulated by COGAT, the Israeli military body overseeing NGO operations. Humanitarian organizations have criticized these justifications, arguing they broadly encompass various remarks labeled as antisemitic by the Israeli government.
The Norwegian Refugee Council, present in Gaza since 2009, is one of many significant groups unable to operate while awaiting the outcome of its re-registration. Ivan Karakashian, a communications manager for the NRC, expressed concerns that the re-registration process aims to hinder their operations rather than facilitate them.
Restricted Aid Delivery
Humanitarian officials report at least one major U.S.-based NGO has already been deregistered and is now undergoing the appeals process. Another organization, Mercy Corps, faced denial of its aid request post-ceasefire due to its pending re-registration. Currently, several aid groups await re-approval while their supplies remain stranded in neighboring countries.
Amid these challenges, the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which has been the largest humanitarian provider in Gaza, remains barred from delivering aid. Israel has accused UNRWA of employing members affiliated with Hamas, a claim made without supporting evidence. UNRWA’s resources include food, medical supplies, and other essential humanitarian items, all of which are crucial for the beleaguered population of Gaza.
