The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have issued a severe and unprecedented directive to all aid organisations operating in northern Gaza, stating that only hospitals will be recognised as protected humanitarian sites.
This declaration dramatically narrows the scope of protected zones and places aid workers outside of these medical facilities in immediate peril. The military's warning implies that any other location, including schools, shelters, or designated aid distribution points, could be considered a legitimate military target and may not be safe from operations.
A New Level of Risk for Humanitarian Operations
The new rules, communicated directly to aid agencies, represent a significant escalation in the operational challenges facing humanitarian efforts. Workers are now confronted with an impossible choice: operate in unprotected areas at extreme risk or concentrate all activity within hospital compounds, which are already overwhelmed and facing critical shortages.
This policy has sent shockwaves through the international aid community, with many organisations questioning how effective relief work can continue under such constraints. The directive effectively funnels all humanitarian traffic and personnel into a handful of already strained medical facilities.
Mounting Pressure on Gaza's Healthcare System
Gaza’s hospitals, which have been operating on the brink of collapse for months, now face the added pressure of potentially becoming the sole hubs for aid distribution and civilian shelter. Medical staff are already struggling with a lack of power, medicine, and clean water while dealing with an endless influx of casualties.
The international community has repeatedly stressed the protected status of medical facilities under international law. However, the IDF's statement suggests a narrowing of this protection, applying it solely to the buildings themselves and not necessarily to the surrounding areas or routes leading to them.
This development marks one of the most restrictive phases for humanitarian access since the conflict began, raising urgent questions about the safety of civilians and those trying to assist them.
