19 EU Nations Urge Action Against Israel’s New Aid Restrictions

Foreign ministers from 19 European Union countries have issued a stern warning regarding Israel’s new regulations for aid-giving non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Gaza. They assert that these “restrictive” rules will further escalate humanitarian suffering in the region. The additional requirements, which were agreed upon in March, are set to take effect on September 9, 2023, and could lead to the de-registration of many international NGOs operating in the occupied Palestinian territories (OPTs), according to the United Nations.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating, “The humanitarian suffering in Gaza has reached unimaginable levels. Famine is unfolding before our eyes.” The statement was signed not only by the EU ministers but also by representatives from Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom. They emphasized that “urgent action is needed now to halt and reverse starvation.”

Concerns Over Humanitarian Access

The ministers expressed that humanitarian efforts must remain apolitical and that the newly established registration requirements could force essential international NGOs to cease operations in the OPTs. This would exacerbate the already critical humanitarian situation. The statement urged Israel to authorize all international NGOs and facilitate the immediate entry of extensive humanitarian aid into Gaza through the United Nations and other organizations.

Concerns regarding the safety of aid distribution were also raised. The statement condemned the use of lethal force at aid sites, noting that many Palestinians have reportedly been shot by snipers and tanks while attempting to access essential supplies.

EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, along with Commissioners Dubravka Šuica and Hadja Lahbib, endorsed the statement. Earlier, Lahbib publicly criticized Israel’s military actions in Gaza, labeling plans for a takeover of Gaza City as “catastrophic.”

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has escalated significantly since Israel initiated military operations against Hamas militants following a surprise attack on southern Israel in October 2023, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 people. The ongoing conflict has led to the destruction of much of Gaza’s infrastructure, including critical water, sanitation, and medical facilities. Local authorities report that civilian deaths have surpassed 60,000, with many casualties being women and children.

Rising Tensions in Europe

The EU’s internal discord regarding the situation in Gaza is becoming increasingly evident. Some civil servants within the EU have expressed open dissent over what they perceive as institutional complicity in the humanitarian crisis. Notably, foreign ministers from Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Germany, Hungary, Poland, and Romania did not endorse the recent statement.

As the situation develops, the international community continues to monitor the humanitarian implications of Israel’s aid regulations, with many calling for immediate intervention to ensure the welfare of those affected in Gaza.