Israel to Bar 37 Aid Groups from Gaza By BBC News – 31 December 2025

 Israel has announced that it will revoke the licenses of 37 international aid groups working in the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank, claiming they failed to meet newly introduced registration requirements. These rules were imposed earlier this year and include conditions such as providing complete personal details of their staff. �

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Some of the well-known non-governmental organisations (NGOs) affected include ActionAid, the International Rescue Committee and the Norwegian Refugee Council. Their licences will be revoked from 1 January 2026, and they must end operations within 60 days. �

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The Israeli Ministry responsible for NGO registration said the groups did not comply with requirements designed to prevent security risks. Authorities also stated that the new rules will not affect the overall flow of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, which will continue through approved and vetted channels, including UN agencies. �

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Foreign ministers from 10 countries, including the UK, France and Canada, strongly criticised the decision. They said the closure of these humanitarian organisations will severely impact essential services, such as health care, in the already devastated territory. �

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Critics also warned the criteria for compliance are vague and politically driven, and could undermine core humanitarian principles. Humanitarian groups in Gaza operate most field hospitals, healthcare centres, water and sanitation services, and nutrition centres for acutely malnourished children. �

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