LIVE: Israel’s ban on 37 aid groups kicks in, Gaza starts 2026 with despair

Al JazeeraCenterEN 1 min read 100% complete by Stephen Quillen,Faisal AliJanuary 1, 2026 at 08:48 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

As of January 1, 2026, Israel's ban on 37 international aid organizations operating in Gaza has taken effect. The affected NGOs include Doctors Without Borders (MSF). Israel claims these organizations, including UN agencies, have unproven links to Hamas, a charge the organizations deny. The ban coincides with a severe weather warning for Palestine, forecasting heavy rain and hail. Al Jazeera reports that residents of Gaza are facing increased restrictions and a worsening humanitarian situation as they enter the new year. The ban is expected to further exacerbate the already dire conditions in the war-battered region.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Hani Mahmoud 40% Gaza City 40% Palestine 50% Palestinian Meteorological Department 50% UN 50% Hamas 60% Doctors Without Borders (MSF) 70% Gaza ×380% Israel ×490%

Keywords

gaza 100% israel 90% aid groups 90% ban 80% humanitarian catastrophe 70% restrictions 60% doctors without borders 50% palestinians 50% united nations agencies 40%