Israel Moves to Bar Aid Organisations from Gaza

The sun sets over a tent camp sheltering Palestinians displaced by the Israeli offensive, on New Year’ Eve in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, December 31, 2025. [Ramadan Abed/Reuters]

Israel has announced new measures that will significantly restrict the operations of international humanitarian organisations in Gaza, a move that aid agencies warn could worsen an already severe humanitarian crisis in the territory.

Under the new policy, set to take effect in early January 2026, dozens of international non-governmental organisations will be required to undergo stricter registration and vetting processes to continue operating in Gaza. Israeli authorities say the decision is aimed at preventing militant groups from exploiting humanitarian operations and ensuring greater transparency in aid delivery.

However, major aid organisations — including medical and relief groups — have pushed back strongly against the move. They argue that the additional requirements could delay or halt life-saving assistance, particularly in areas where civilians are already facing shortages of food, medicine, clean water, and shelter.

Humanitarian officials have described the situation in Gaza as critical. Hospitals remain overwhelmed, medical supplies are scarce, and large numbers of displaced families are living in temporary shelters as winter conditions worsen. Aid agencies say their ability to respond quickly and independently is essential to preventing further loss of life.

The announcement comes amid ongoing hostilities and fragile ceasefire efforts, with international observers expressing concern that restricting humanitarian access could undermine civilian protection and violate international humanitarian norms.

Several governments and global organisations have urged Israel to reconsider the measures, calling for uninterrupted humanitarian access and warning that any disruption could have immediate and devastating consequences for Gaza’s civilian population.

As the situation develops, aid groups say continued dialogue will be necessary to balance security concerns with the urgent need to protect civilians caught in the conflict.