What's happened
As of February 28, 2026, Israel will expel Doctors Without Borders (MSF) from Gaza and the West Bank after MSF refused to provide detailed staff information demanded under new Israeli regulations. MSF cites safety concerns and lack of assurances on data use. The move follows Israel's broader crackdown on 37 aid groups amid ongoing conflict and a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
What's behind the headline?
Israel's Crackdown on Humanitarian Aid
Israel's demand for detailed personal data from aid organizations represents a strategic tightening of control over humanitarian operations in Gaza and the West Bank. By requiring sensitive information such as passports, CVs, and family details, Israel asserts security concerns but risks compromising the safety and neutrality of aid workers.
MSF's Dilemma and Humanitarian Impact
MSF's refusal to comply stems from legitimate fears that data could be weaponized against staff, especially given Israel's history of targeting aid workers—over 550 killed since the war began, including 15 MSF employees. The expulsion of MSF threatens to collapse critical medical services, as the organization provides 20% of hospital beds and extensive emergency care in Gaza.
Political and Legal Context
Israel's actions coincide with broader efforts to delegitimize Palestinian civil society and humanitarian actors, including accusations against UNRWA and other NGOs. The international community has condemned these measures as violations of international humanitarian law, emphasizing Israel's obligations as an occupying power to facilitate aid.
Forecast and Consequences
The removal of MSF and other NGOs will exacerbate Gaza's humanitarian crisis, leaving hundreds of thousands without essential medical care amid ongoing conflict and infrastructure destruction. Israel's plan to replace MSF with alternative medical solutions raises concerns about the quality and independence of care.
Reader Relevance
This story highlights the complex intersection of security, humanitarian principles, and political conflict. It underscores the risks faced by aid workers and the fragility of medical services in conflict zones, emphasizing the global importance of protecting humanitarian operations.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports that eight major aid organizations, including ActionAid and Medecins du Monde, have joined MSF and Oxfam in refusing to share staff data with Israel, citing risks to personnel safety. MSF's secretary-general Christopher Lockyear told The Times of Israel that Israel's decision to ban MSF is a "pretext" to obstruct aid, warning of catastrophic consequences for Gaza's population. Al Jazeera highlights the widespread condemnation of Israel's demands, with MSF initially agreeing to share limited staff information but later retracting due to lack of assurances. France 24 details Israel's allegations linking MSF employees to militant groups, which MSF denies, and notes the organization's critical role in Gaza's healthcare. Sky News contextualizes the ban amid ongoing violence and the limited reopening of the Rafah crossing, emphasizing the dire humanitarian situation. Politico underscores the political sensitivity, noting the ban's potential to intensify scrutiny of Israel's aid policies. These sources collectively illustrate the tension between Israel's security claims and humanitarian concerns, revealing a deepening crisis in Gaza's medical aid landscape.
How we got here
Since October 2023, Gaza has endured a devastating war with Israel, severely damaging its health system. In late 2025, Israel imposed strict data-sharing rules on 37 aid organizations, requiring detailed personal information about staff. Many groups, including MSF and Oxfam, refused, citing risks to staff safety and breaches of humanitarian principles. Israel alleges some staff have militant ties, claims MSF denies.
Go deeper
- Why is Israel demanding detailed staff information from aid groups?
- What are the risks to humanitarian workers in Gaza?
- How will MSF's expulsion affect medical care in Gaza?
Common question
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What’s happening with UNRWA facilities and aid groups in conflict zones?
Recent developments in conflict zones have raised urgent questions about humanitarian aid, international responses, and safety concerns for aid workers. From the demolition of UNRWA facilities in East Jerusalem to Israeli demands for NGO data, these issues highlight the complex challenges faced by humanitarian organizations today. Below, we explore the key questions and provide clear answers to help you understand the current situation.
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Why is MSF being expelled from Gaza?
The recent expulsion of MSF from Gaza has raised many questions about the ongoing conflict and aid restrictions. Understanding why this international aid organization is being forced to leave can shed light on the broader humanitarian crisis, safety concerns, and political tensions in the region. Below, we explore the key reasons behind MSF's expulsion and what it means for civilians and aid efforts in Gaza.
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Why is Israel cracking down on aid groups in Gaza?
The recent expulsion of aid organizations like Doctors Without Borders from Gaza has raised many questions. Why is Israel demanding staff data from aid groups, and what are the implications for humanitarian aid in the region? Below, we explore the reasons behind these actions and what they mean for Gaza's ongoing crisis.
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Why Is Israel Banning Aid Groups in Gaza? What’s Happening?
The recent ban on aid organizations like Doctors Without Borders in Gaza has raised many questions. Why is Israel restricting aid? What are the risks for aid workers and Palestinians? Here’s what you need to know about the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the political tensions behind it.
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What Are the Global Impacts of Recent International Conflicts?
Recent headlines reveal a complex web of international issues, from conflicts in Gaza to immigration debates in the US and shifting alliances in Latin America. These stories raise important questions about how local events can have far-reaching consequences. Below, we explore the connections, implications, and power dynamics shaping today's world.
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What’s Next? Future Outlook on Key Global Issues
As the world faces complex challenges—from aid restrictions in Gaza to local resistance against immigration enforcement and shifting international relations—people are eager to understand what the future holds. Here, we explore the latest developments and what they could mean for global stability, humanitarian efforts, and diplomatic relations. Curious about the next steps? Read on for answers to your most pressing questions.
More on these topics
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.
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Gaza most commonly refers to:
Gaza Strip, a Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea
Gaza City, a city in the Gaza Strip
Gaza may also refer to:
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The West Bank is a landlocked territory near the Mediterranean coast of Western Asia, bordered by Jordan to the east and by Israel to the south, west and north. The West Bank also contains a significant section of the western Dead Sea shore.
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Oxfam is a British-founded confederation of 21 independent non-governmental organizations (NGOs), focusing on the alleviation of global poverty, founded in 1942 and led by Oxfam International. It began as the Oxford Committee for Famine Relief in Oxford..