Humanitarian organisations have accused Israel of deliberately obstructing aid deliveries to Gaza by imposing stringent new registration requirements on NGOs operating in the region. The rules, which came into effect earlier this month, mandate that all aid groups must undergo a complex bureaucratic process to gain approval for their operations.
Growing Concerns Over Aid Access
Several major aid agencies, including Oxfam and Médecins Sans Frontières, argue that the new regulations are a thinly veiled attempt to restrict humanitarian assistance. "These rules are not about oversight—they are about control," said one representative. "By slowing down approvals, Israel is effectively weaponising aid."
Impact on Gaza's Population
The restrictions come at a time when Gaza faces severe shortages of food, medicine, and clean water. The United Nations has warned that the delays caused by the registration process could worsen an already dire humanitarian situation. "Every day that aid is delayed, lives are at risk," a UN spokesperson stated.
Israel's Defence
Israeli officials deny the allegations, insisting that the new rules are necessary to prevent aid from reaching Hamas or other militant groups. "We have a responsibility to ensure that humanitarian assistance does not fuel terrorism," said a government spokesperson. However, critics argue that the measures are disproportionate and will primarily harm civilians.
International Response
The European Union and several Western governments have expressed concern over the regulations, urging Israel to streamline the process. Meanwhile, aid groups are calling for immediate intervention to prevent further suffering in Gaza.
