NGO Refugees International released a letter condemning Israel's suspension of over twenty humanitarian organizations working in Gaza, starting on January 1.
"This action will cost the lives of Palestinians," the letter stated. "Removing these humanitarian organizations now will deepen exposure, illness, and preventable deaths."
The letter accused Israel of violating the intent of the current ceasefire in Gaza by barring the aid groups from providing Palestinians with medical aid and other relief. "A ceasefire is not only an agreement to reduce violence; it is a commitment to stabilize civilian life and restore meaningful humanitarian assistance at scale," it said.
Israel's claims lack evidence, NGO says
The NGO rejected Israel's claims that aid was being diverted to Hamas, stating it had "never been backed up with credible evidence." Israel's actions were instead described as an effort to silence independent aid organizations.
"All governments and donors with leverage should engage urgently and at the highest levels to press for reversal of this decision," the letter concluded.
The organizations, which included Doctors Without Borders (MSF) were suspended due to their failure to comply with Israel's registration requirements, including providing Israel with a list of employees.