Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has called on Israeli authorities to grant the organisation permission to continue operating in Gaza and the occupied West Bank in 2026, warning that restrictions on humanitarian access could severely undermine lifesaving medical work in the Palestinian territories.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the medical charity said it was urging Israel to ensure that MSF and other independent international non-governmental organisations are formally registered in Israel, a requirement it says is necessary to sustain operations in both Gaza and the West Bank next year. MSF stressed that its ability to deliver emergency medical care depends on predictable access and clear administrative authorisation.
The appeal comes amid growing concern among humanitarian groups following an announcement by Israeli authorities that 37 aid organisations, including MSF, could be denied access to Gaza from January 1 unless they submit detailed information on their Palestinian staff. The measure has drawn criticism from international bodies, with both the United Nations and the European Union expressing alarm over its potential impact on humanitarian assistance.
MSF warned that limiting access or delaying approvals could disrupt medical services at a time when needs remain acute. The organisation operates hospitals, clinics and mobile medical teams in conflict-affected areas, providing trauma care, surgical services and treatment for chronic illnesses. It said administrative barriers risk compounding the already fragile health situation in Gaza and parts of the West Bank.
Humanitarian agencies have argued that demands for staff data and registration changes could expose local employees to additional risks and discourage aid organisations from maintaining a presence in the territories. MSF reiterated that neutrality and independence are central to its work and called for humanitarian actors to be allowed to operate without political or administrative pressure.
As the deadline set by Israeli authorities approaches, aid groups are warning that any interruption to their activities could have immediate consequences for civilians who rely on international medical support. MSF said it remains ready to continue its work but needs clear guarantees that access will be granted and maintained.
