How do MSF and other NGOs argue the rules breach humanitarian law?

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NGOs Argue Israeli Regulations Violate Humanitarian Law and Principles

Several international non-governmental organisations (NGOs), including Doctors Without Borders (MSF) and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), have argued that Israel's new "security and transparency standards" for aid agencies operating in Gaza contravene international humanitarian law and fundamental humanitarian principles. These regulations, which mandate the disclosure of detailed information on Palestinian staff, funding, and operational structures, have been met with significant resistance from aid groups who believe they compromise their independence and neutrality. The deadline for compliance with these new rules expired on Wednesday, leading to the impending ban of 37 humanitarian agencies from supplying aid in Gaza.
MSF Cites Violations of International Humanitarian Law and Staff Safety Concerns

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has stated that Israel's demand for a comprehensive list of its staff members "may be in violation of Israel’s obligations under international humanitarian law." The organisation further asserted that it "would never knowingly employ people engaging in military activity," pushing back against Israeli accusations of employing individuals linked to militant groups like Islamic Jihad and Hamas. MSF's stance highlights a fundamental disagreement over data privacy and the potential risks to their personnel if such sensitive information is disclosed.
NRC Refuses to Negotiate Staff Names, Citing Protection Concerns

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) has also voiced strong objections, with spokesperson Shaina Low emphasizing that submitting the names of local staff is "not negotiable." Low explained that international staff provide an "extra layer of help and security" for their local colleagues, and their presence serves as a protective measure. The NRC has indicated that while they offered alternative solutions to Israeli regulators, these proposals were refused, underscoring their commitment to protecting their staff and maintaining operational independence.
Broader Concerns Over Independence, Neutrality, and Bureaucratic Barriers

Beyond specific staff safety concerns, 18 left-wing NGOs based in Israel have denounced the new registration framework, characterising it as a "weaponisation of bureaucracy" that "institutionalises barriers to aid." These organisations contend that the framework violates core humanitarian principles of independence and neutrality. Philippe Lazzarini, the head of the UN Palestinian refugee agency, echoed these sentiments, calling the move a "dangerous precedent" that undermines the foundational principles of humanitarian work worldwide. The foreign ministers of ten countries, including France and Britain, have also urged Israel to ensure continued access for humanitarian aid in Gaza.

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How do MSF and other NGOs argue the rules breach humanitarian law?

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