Twelve countries are worried about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. These countries include nations from Europe, Canada, and Japan. This is happening because Israel has stopped many aid groups. Thirty-seven international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) will have to stop their work. They have sixty days to close. Their licenses were suspended on January 1st. Many people around the world are criticizing this decision. There are fears that the situation for people in Gaza will become much worse.
The countries made a joint statement on Tuesday. They asked Israel to make immediate changes. They want Israel to allow NGOs to work freely. They also want the work of United Nations agencies to continue. The statement mentioned that there are "unreasonable restrictions" on supplies. These include medical items and materials for shelter. Open borders are needed for aid to reach people. This united pressure shows growing international concern. The blockade of aid could harm millions of people.
However, Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs disagrees. A spokesperson said the statement was "detached criticism." They also said it was "one-sided demands." They believe the statement ignores improvements in Gaza since a ceasefire. Israel also feels the statement does not mention disarming Hamas. Israel says the INGOs did not follow new rules. They needed more personal details about their staff. But the INGOs say this information could put their staff in danger. Human rights groups agree with this concern.
The EU's humanitarian chief, Hadja Lahbib, said Israel's plan is "blocking life-saving aid." The UN human rights chief, Volker Türk, called the suspensions "outrageous." He said they were "arbitrary." He warned this would make a bad situation even worse. The Humanitarian Country Team for the Occupied Palestinian Territory is also concerned. They said that without these INGOs, it will be "impossible to meet all urgent needs."
This crisis comes after fighting began in October. Hamas attacked Israel. Then, Israel started military operations in Gaza. A global hunger monitor said famine conditions are not present now. However, aid restrictions and the expulsion of aid groups could change this. The situation for people in Gaza and the West Bank is serious. Essential services could fail. This could lead to a humanitarian disaster. The world must now deal with diplomatic issues. They must also try to get aid to people who need it.