Summary
Israel plans to cancel the licenses of 37 aid organizations working in Gaza and the West Bank due to not meeting new registration requirements. This decision includes major international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) like ActionAid and the Norwegian Refugee Council, and has drawn criticism from several countries' foreign ministers. Israel states that the changes do not affect overall aid delivery, as assistance continues through approved channels.
Key Facts
- Israel will revoke licenses for 37 aid groups in Gaza and the West Bank from January 1.
- Affected organizations include well-known INGOs such as ActionAid and the Norwegian Refugee Council.
- The main reason cited is the failure to provide complete personal details of employees.
- Foreign ministers from 10 countries criticized the decision as restrictive and unacceptable.
- Critics say the closures will impact access to essential services like healthcare in Gaza.
- Israel claims the measures aim to prevent the infiltration of terrorist operatives.
- Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs says aid delivery will continue via vetted and approved channels.
- Fewer than 15% of aid organizations were found non-compliant with new rules.
