Guterres Calls on Israel to Revert Decision Banning Relief Organizations in Gaza

SadaNews - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Israel late Friday into Saturday to reverse its decision to prevent the entry of several international humanitarian organizations into the Gaza Strip, according to a statement from his spokesperson.

Stefan Dujarric stated that Guterres is "very concerned about the Israeli authorities’ announcement to suspend the activities of many international NGOs in the occupied Palestinian territories," and he "calls for the reversal of this measure."

He emphasized that these international organizations are "essential for vital humanitarian work, and this suspension threatens to undermine the fragile progress achieved during the ceasefire" in Gaza.

He expressed regret, saying, "This announcement adds to previous restrictions that have slowed the entry of essential food, medical supplies, hygiene materials, and shelter into Gaza. This latest decision will exacerbate the humanitarian crisis faced by the Palestinians."

On Thursday, Israel confirmed that it would prevent 37 major international humanitarian organizations from entering the Gaza Strip, accusing them of failing to provide a list of their employees, which has now been officially required for "security" purposes.

This measure raises concerns about further delays in delivering aid to Gaza, which has been devastated by war for two years, where the majority of the population urgently needs shelter, care, and food.

It also reflects Israel's desire to monitor Palestinian staff, which some NGOs consider illegal.

These organizations include key humanitarian actors such as Doctors Without Borders, the Norwegian Refugee Council, CARE, World Vision, and Oxfam.

The new regulations officially apply only to Gaza, but NGOs have already expressed concern that they may extend to the occupied West Bank in the future.