Israel to Suspend Aid Groups in Gaza in 2026
Israel has said it will suspend the operations of more than two dozen international humanitarian organisations working in the Gaza Strip starting January 1, 2026. The move follows new government rules requiring detailed registration, including information on staff, funding and activities, that many groups did not meet.
Groups Affected and Reason for Suspension
Among the organisations expected to lose permission to operate are some major aid agencies providing food, medical care, education and support services in Gaza. Israeli authorities said the affected groups failed to comply with updated vetting requirements intended to prevent militant exploitation of aid channels. The Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and related government bodies said the decision applies to roughly 15 per cent of registered NGOs in the territory.
Humanitarian Concerns Raised
Humanitarian organisations have criticised the new rules as arbitrary and said the suspension could worsen conditions for civilians in Gaza, where repeated conflict has left basic services strained. Many of the groups did not submit complete staff lists, including names of local employees, which they said was due to safety and privacy concerns. Aid agencies warn that losing international staff access will put additional strain on local workers already under pressure.
Impact on Aid Delivery
Officials administering humanitarian access in Gaza said assistance will continue through other approved organisations, but aid workers and rights groups say the loss of experienced agencies could disrupt delivery of essential services. Critics also argue that the new restrictions come at a time when humanitarian needs remain high following years of conflict and a fragile ceasefire.
Future Implications
The decision reflects ongoing tensions between Israeli authorities and international aid groups over regulations and security concerns. Both sides have insisted on their positions, with Israel emphasising security and NGOs urging greater flexibility to ensure uninterrupted humanitarian support.
