Egyptian trucks carrying humanitarian aid make their way to the Gaza Strip, amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas, at the Kerem Shalom crossing in southern Israel, May 30, 2024. Photo: REUTERS/Amir Cohen
Israel has dismissed as “entirely false” claims by over 100 aid groups that it is blocking humanitarian supplies to Gaza, insisting the real obstacle is some organizations refusing to meet security vetting requirements designed to keep aid from the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas.
“We reject false claims made by over 100 international organizations alleging Israel blocks humanitarian aid to Gaza. The reality is entirely the opposite of the claims that were published,” COGAT (Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories), the Israeli body responsible for coordinating aid deliveries to Gaza, said in a statement on Thursday.
“Israel acts to allow and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, while Hamas seeks to exploit the aid to strengthen its military capabilities and consolidate its control over the population,” COGAT continued. “This is sometimes done under the cover of certain international aid organizations, whether knowingly or unknowingly.”
According to COGAT, the Israeli defense establishment, under direction from the political leadership, has implemented a new aid entry mechanism designed to prevent Hamas from diverting supplies. The process requires organizations to formally register with Israel’s Ministry for Diaspora Affairs, including submitting employee lists for prior security screening. COGAT described the criteria as “clear” and “professional,” aimed at preserving the humanitarian system’s integrity and blocking terrorist infiltration. The agency emphasized that the mechanism was presented to aid groups in advance and is fully transparent.
