Caritas can continue work in Gaza after status clarified

Late last year, Israeli authorities published a list of 37 non-governmental organisations that were reportedly required to cease operations in the Gaza Strip. Among the names that appeared were Caritas Internationalis and Caritas Jerusalem.

New transitional guidelines governing the registration of organisations and the authorisation of foreign personnel were issued.

On December 31, the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem clarified Caritas Jerusalem’s legal status and confirmed that the organisation would continue its humanitarian and development operations in Gaza, the West Bank and Jerusalem.

These operations continued without interruption throughout a process of further investigation, which concluded positively in mid-February. Caritas Jerusalem has now received official clarification from the Government of Israel confirming that, as a local organisation, it is not subject to the re-registration guidelines.

Caritas Jerusalem welcomed this resolution and expressed gratitude to all those who supported the process. Caritas Internationalis has also affirmed its commitment to continue to stand alongside members serving vulnerable communities in the Holy Land.

In the Gaza Strip, Caritas employs 127 staff and another 28 work in the West Bank. The organisation runs eight medical units in Gaza, including one fixed clinic in Gaza City, alongside two psychosocial support units.

Beyond emergency responses, Caritas is planning to expand a maternal and child health centre in Gaza, focusing on mothers – many widowed by war – and minors. At the same time, it continues initiatives aimed at dialogue and reconciliation.

FULL STORY

Caritas will be able to continue work in Gaza (Zenit)

Caritas partners continue supporting communities… (Melbourne Catholic/Caritas Australia)