Countries Raise Concerns Over New Restrictions on Aid Groups in Gaza
Many countries have expressed serious concern about the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. They said that the amount of aid entering the territory remains extremely low, while most of the population continues to depend on humanitarian assistance for survival.
Some countries also expressed disapproval over an Israeli Supreme Court ruling upholding an Israeli government-created registration process for international non-governmental organizations (INGOs). The countries warned that the registration process would create significant new barriers to assisting people in desperate need throughout Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.
The countries stated that international aid organizations have been really important in providing basic needs such as health care, clean drinking water, safe sanitation, education and food assistance. Most of those organizations partner closely with local Palestinian organizations or with the United Nations to provide assistance to those who need it.
The statement made by the government of Netherlands also pointed to other challenges affecting humanitarian operations, including border restrictions, limited crossing hours, and delays in bringing essential supplies into Gaza. The countries called on Israel to allow safe, rapid, and unhindered humanitarian access so aid organizations can continue supporting civilians affected by the crisis.