Over 100 organizations join forces to demand an end to the "weaponization of aid," as strict Israeli guidelines hinder essential support for Gazans facing starvation.
Israeli Aid Restrictions Prompt Urgent Call for Action from NGOs
Israeli Aid Restrictions Prompt Urgent Call for Action from NGOs
Humanitarian groups warn of dire consequences as aid access to Gaza becomes increasingly limited.
More than 100 humanitarian organizations, including prominent charities such as Oxfam and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), have united in a strong plea for Israel to cease the "weaponization of aid" intended for Gaza, as the humanitarian crisis escalates. The groups assert that strident regulations, instituted in March, have increasingly barred them from delivering critical support unless they adhere to Israel's stringent requirements. This includes facing potential bans if they are perceived to undermine the legitimacy of Israel or fail to disclose information about their Palestinian staff.
In refuting claims of aid restrictions, Israeli authorities maintain that the new regulations are designed to ensure aid delivery directly to the populace rather than to Hamas. However, the joint letter from NGOs paints a grim picture, indicating that since the new rules were implemented, most major organizations have been unable to transport any lifesaving supplies into Gaza. In July alone, over 60 requests to deliver essential goods were denied.
The consequences of these restrictions have been devastating, leaving hospitals bereft of supplies and vulnerable populations, such as children, elderly individuals, and those with disabilities, facing starvation and preventable health crises. Sean Carroll, CEO of American Near East Refugee Aid (Anera), expressed frustration over the blockade of over $7 million worth of aid, consisting of 744 tons of rice, only a few kilometers from Gaza.
Despite Israel's explanations that delays arise from NGOs failing to comply with basic security protocols, the alleged blockade contrasts sharply with the UN's estimation that Gaza requires 600 trucks of supplies daily—a figure that the current volume of aid does not meet. The new guidelines necessitate a restructured registration process for NGOs, sporting criteria that could lead to rejection based on suspicion of delegitimizing Israel or involvement in hostile activities.
Israeli officials defend the rigorous approach by alleging that numerous organizations misuse their humanitarian status for adverse activities. Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli assured that only those organizations devoid of ties to hostility or boycott movements would be recognized for operation.
As violence escalates, with Israel intensifying its military actions in Gaza City, humanitarian operatives sound the alarm. Aitor Zabalgogeazkoa of MSF described the situation as a militarized food distribution scheme that has effectively weaponized starvation. The deteriorating conditions are further underscored by the tragic statistic cited by organizations that starvation and malnutrition claims multiple lives in Gaza amid ongoing conflict.
