Jerusalem: Israel on Sunday announced its intention to halt the operations of Doctors Without Borders (MSF) in the Gaza Strip. Using the organization's original French name, the Diaspora Ministry declared that it has initiated 'steps to end M©decins Sans Fronti¨res' activities in the region.'
According to Ghana News Agency, the ministry accused MSF of violating a new registration procedure by failing to submit the lists of its local Palestinian staff. As a result, the aid group is expected to vacate the Gaza Strip by February 28. The ministry emphasized that the registration procedure is designed to 'enable legitimate humanitarian work while preventing the abuse of humanitarian structures for hostile activities and terrorism,' and applies to all humanitarian organizations in the area.
MSF asserted on Sunday that it chose not to provide the names of its staff because Israeli authorities did not offer the necessary assurances to safeguard its staff's safety, protect their personal data, and maintain the independence of its medical operations. The organization underscored its duty to protect its colleagues from harm while continuing their mission to provide medical assistance amid a humanitarian catastrophe.
Previously, on Friday, MSF had already stated its decision to withhold the lists of its Palestinian and international staff from Israeli authorities, following months of unsuccessful attempts to engage in dialogue to ensure staff safety. MSF highlighted the dangers faced by medical and humanitarian workers, who have been intimidated, arbitrarily detained, and attacked, and noted that since October 2023, 1,700 health workers, including 15 MSF colleagues, have been killed in the Gaza Strip.
Critics have accused Israel of deliberately targeting aid groups providing essential care in Gaza since the conflict began between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Despite a ceasefire in place since October, the humanitarian situation remains dire for Gaza's 2 million residents. At the start of the year, Israel revoked the licenses of several aid organizations, with critics pointing out the ambiguous nature of the registration requirements, which could lead to arbitrary decisions. These regulations require organizations to disclose confidential information about Palestinian staff and to dismiss staff upon request.
Israeli Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli reiterated accusations against MSF, claiming the organization employs individuals active in terrorist organizations and therefore conceals its staff lists. MSF, which works in coordination with the Hamas-controlled Health Ministry, stated that it would never knowingly employ individuals involved in military activities, as it contradicts its core values and ethics.
MSF expressed frustration over the ministry's refusal to address concerns about sharing sensitive data, noting that repeated requests for a meeting have been ignored. The organization warned of a 'devastating impact' on the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian Territories if it is forced to cease operations, and remains open to dialogue with Israel. The Israeli statement mentioned that 'measures are now being examined to provide alternative medical solutions and ensure the continuity of humanitarian aid for the residents of the Gaza Strip after the organization's withdrawal.'