Will New Israel Registration Rules Cripple Gaza Aid Operations?

The UN and various humanitarian organisations are raising alarms over new Israeli registration regulations for international non-governmental organisations (INGOs), fearing they could undermine crucial humanitarian efforts in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip. Under the new rules, INGOs that fail to register by 31 December must cease operations within 60 days, which could severely disrupt essential services like healthcare. Notably, Save the Children has reported that its application remains unapproved, and it is actively exploring all options to reverse this decision.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Israeli government's new regulations for INGOs have sparked significant concern among humanitarian agencies on the ground. As the deadline approaches, organisations like Save the Children and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) are urgently seeking to secure their operational status. With only a fraction of the applications being approved, the potential collapse of humanitarian services looms large. The Humanitarian Country Team for the Occupied Palestinian Territory has warned that the new system jeopardises vital operations, particularly in Gaza, where many depend on these organisations for healthcare and other essential services.

Key takeaways

INGOs must register by 31 December or face closure within 60 days.
Save the Children and MSF are among those whose applications are still pending.
The new registration criteria are seen as vague and politically motivated.

Timeline: how we got here

The situation has evolved significantly since the introduction of the new registration system in March 2023. Key milestones include:

March 2023: The Israeli government introduces a new registration system for INGOs.
September 2023: Initial deadline for registration set for 9 September.
31 December 2023: Extended deadline for INGOs to register or face closure.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent reports indicate that as of early October, 14 out of approximately 100 INGOs have had their applications rejected, while 21 have been approved, with many more still under review. This raises concerns about the capacity of remaining INGOs to meet the humanitarian needs in Gaza and the West Bank.

What was already established

Prior to these new regulations, INGOs had operated in the region under existing frameworks that allowed for humanitarian assistance. The introduction of the new rules is viewed as a significant shift that could restrict the operational capabilities of these organisations.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza directly affects UK citizens who support international aid initiatives. A reduction in services could lead to increased suffering among Palestinian families, prompting calls for greater advocacy and support from the UK government and its citizens.

Businesses and jobs

UK-based INGOs may face operational challenges, impacting their ability to provide services and support jobs. This could lead to a reduction in funding for these organisations, affecting their staff and local partners in the region.

Policy and regulation

UK policy on humanitarian aid may come under scrutiny as the situation develops. The UK government could face pressure to respond to these new regulations and advocate for the continuation of humanitarian services in Gaza and the West Bank.

Numbers that matter

100: The approximate number of INGOs affected by the registration process.
14: The number of applications rejected so far.
21: The number of INGOs that have been granted registration.
300: The number of staff Save the Children employs in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
1 in 3: The ratio of health facilities in Gaza that could close if INGOs are forced to cease operations.

Definitions and jargon buster

INGOs: International Non-Governmental Organisations that provide humanitarian assistance.
OPT: Occupied Palestinian Territories, which include the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Humanitarian principles: Core guidelines that govern humanitarian action, including neutrality, impartiality, and independence.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

The immediate focus should be on monitoring the registration approvals and any developments regarding organisations still awaiting a decision. Advocacy efforts may intensify to ensure that humanitarian services continue without interruption.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the situation evolves, INGOs will likely reassess their strategies and operational capabilities. The potential for increased scrutiny and regulatory challenges may also prompt changes in how these organisations operate in the region.

Signals to watch

Updates on registration approvals from the Israeli government.
Statements from INGOs regarding operational capabilities and challenges.
Changes in the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the West Bank.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about the registration process and its implications for humanitarian aid.
Support INGOs through donations and advocacy.
Engage with local representatives to raise awareness about the crisis.

Don’t

Assume that aid will continue unaffected without INGOs.
Ignore the potential impact of registration rejections on the humanitarian response.
Spread misinformation about the intentions of INGOs working in the region.

Checklist

Check for updates on INGOs’ registration statuses.
Follow relevant news sources for ongoing developments.
Consider contacting your MP regarding UK support for humanitarian efforts.
Share information about the situation with your network.
Explore ways to support humanitarian organisations financially or through volunteering.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation remains fluid, and the outcomes related to the registration process are uncertain. The Israeli government's criteria for approval could evolve, as could the operational landscape for INGOs. Additionally, the humanitarian needs in Gaza may escalate, further complicating the response for those organisations that remain active.

Bottom line

The introduction of new registration rules for INGOs poses significant risks to the humanitarian response in Gaza and the West Bank. As organisations grapple with the implications of these regulations, the potential for a humanitarian crisis looms large, requiring immediate action and sustained support from the international community.

FAQs

What are the new registration rules for INGOs in Israel?

The new registration rules require INGOs to register by 31 December or face closure within 60 days, with vague criteria that many find politically motivated.

How does this impact humanitarian aid in Gaza?

The restrictions threaten to disrupt essential services, as many INGOs provide healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition support in the region.

What is the role of Save the Children and MSF in Gaza?

Save the Children and Médecins Sans Frontières provide critical healthcare and support services in Gaza, with their operations now jeopardised by the new registration requirements.