Israeli Aid Ban Sparks Rights Group Condemnation

Nineteen Israeli human rights organizations have publicly condemned their government's decision. The government has banned several international aid groups from operating in Gaza and the West Bank. The rights coalition issued a joint statement. It said the ban "undermines principled humanitarian action." They argue it blocks critical aid to civilians during a severe crisis. The Israeli government has not detailed its reasons for the ban. It has previously accused some aid groups of having ties to hostile actors. The banned organizations provided food, medical care, and other essential services. Their absence is expected to worsen conditions in the territories. The rights groups warn the move damages Israel's international standing. They call for an immediate reversal of the decision to allow humanitarian work to continue.