MSF refuses to provide staff information to Israeli authorities.

In an ever-complex humanitarian landscape, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) faces significant challenges in safeguarding its personnel while continuing its vital operations in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories. Opting to withhold staff data requested by Israeli authorities, MSF underscores the heightened risks that humanitarian workers encounter amid the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the need for stringent protection measures in their light of a deteriorating security environment.

Doctors Without Borders, referred to by its French acronym MSF, has announced its decision not to provide Israeli authorities with the personal details of its staff operating in Gaza and across the occupied Palestinian territories. This choice comes in light of growing concerns for staff safety and the absence of guarantees regarding the use of the requested information.

The organization’s reversal follows substantial backlash from aid workers and human rights advocates regarding its earlier statement in which it expressed willingness to share staff names under specified conditions.

In a recent announcement, MSF clarified that it could not secure the assurances it sought from Israeli authorities—resulting in the decision to withhold any staff information “under the current circumstances,” which it cited as necessary to protect its workers.

Since last year, Israel has sought detailed information from various international aid organizations, including MSF, as part of new “security and transparency standards.” This initiative met with widespread criticism from humanitarian groups, who argue that such demands jeopardize the safety of aid workers, who already face significant threats in the field. Reports indicate that over 1,700 health workers have lost their lives since the escalation of conflict in Gaza began in October 2023, with MSF itself mourning the loss of at least 15 employees.

The recent withdrawal of licenses from 37 aid organizations—including prominent entities like the Norwegian Refugee Council and Oxfam—highlights the increasing tension between humanitarian missions and governmental regulations. Under new regulations from Israel’s Ministry for Diaspora Affairs, organizations must now supply sensitive personal details, including passport copies, CVs, and information about staff family members. A further stipulation allows Israel to target organizations it perceives as inciting anti-Israel sentiments or supporting armed resistance.

MSF conducted extensive discussions with Israeli officials over several months but ultimately concluded that compliance with these stringent demands was not safe. The organization had previously indicated its willingness to share limited staff information if clear parameters were established and consent was obtained from individuals involved. Nevertheless, it concluded that it could not verify that any data provided would be solely used for administrative purposes without risking staff safety.

Humanitarian organizations worry that sharing such sensitive data could make aid workers in Gaza, the occupied West Bank, and East Jerusalem more vulnerable to attacks. Israel’s claims—that MSF employs personnel linked to hostile groups—have prompted fears that such narratives might normalize violence against humanitarian efforts, ultimately undermining life-saving initiatives. According to the International Rescue Committee, Palestinians represent nearly 20% of all aid workers killed worldwide since record-keeping began.

MSF operates crucial medical services throughout Gaza and the occupied West Bank, providing critical care amid dire conditions. The organization has stated that its expulsion from these regions could lead to catastrophic consequences for a population experiencing severe humanitarian crises amid widespread destruction and urgent needs as winter conditions approach. As of recent assessments, nearly 500 individuals have lost their lives since October due to the ongoing violence, all while essential healthcare services remain substantially impaired.

Despite these obstacles, MSF remains committed to negotiating with Israeli authorities to sustain its critical medical operations in Gaza and the West Bank, asserting its resolve to continue delivering lifesaving care to those most in need.

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