What security and transparency standards did Israel say were missed?

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Israel Cites Failure to Disclose Personnel Information as Reason for Halting NGO Operations in Gaza

Israel stated that 37 humanitarian agencies operating in Gaza failed to meet a deadline to comply with new "security and transparency standards," leading to the suspension of their licenses. These standards primarily required humanitarian organisations to disclose detailed information regarding their Palestinian staff. The deadline for compliance was March 1, and organisations failing to meet these requirements risk having their licenses revoked.
Personnel Disclosure Requirements

The core of Israel's stated security and transparency standards revolves around the "full disclosure of personnel, funding sources, and operational structures." Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism indicated that the primary failure identified was the refusal of these NGOs to provide complete and verifiable information about their employees. This requirement is framed by Israel as a critical measure to prevent the infiltration of terrorist operatives into humanitarian structures operating within the Palestinian territories.
Specific Accusations Against Doctors Without Borders

In the case of Doctors Without Borders (MSF), Israel specifically accused the organisation of having two employees who were allegedly members of Palestinian militant groups, namely Islamic Jihad and Hamas. MSF has stated that the request to share a list of its staff could violate international humanitarian law and asserted that they would not knowingly employ individuals engaged in military activity.
Norwegian Refugee Council's Stance on Local Staff Names

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) spokesperson articulated a firm position regarding the disclosure of local staff names, stating it was "not negotiable." The organisation reportedly offered alternative solutions to Israeli regulators, which were refused. The NRC highlighted that their local staff are exhausted and that the presence of international staff provides an additional layer of assistance and security, framing their presence as a form of protection.
Broader Concerns and NGO Responses

Beyond personnel details, the new regulations demand comprehensive information on funding sources and operational structures. Several NGOs, including Doctors Without Borders and the Norwegian Refugee Council, have voiced concerns that these requirements contravene international humanitarian law or compromise their operational independence and neutrality. Israel maintains that the regulations are designed to prevent organisations it accuses of supporting terrorism from operating in the Palestinian territories.

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What security and transparency standards did Israel say were missed?

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