It Could Happen Here Aid as a Tool of War in Gaza feat. Dana El Kurd
Aug 5, 2025
In this intriguing conversation, Bushra Khalidi, Oxfam's policy lead, sheds light on the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. She discusses the devastating impact of aid restrictions and how they relate to larger strategies of ethnic cleansing. Khalidi emphasizes the critical challenges faced by humanitarian organizations, including legal barriers and the politicization of aid. The episode also tackles the ethical dilemmas of delivering assistance in conflict zones, urging for a reevaluation of aid as a tool intertwined with military strategies.
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Oxfam's Sustainable Aid Model
- Oxfam's work in Palestinian territories focuses heavily on water, sanitation, food security, and supporting women's cooperatives.
- Much of their aid is delivered through local partners, emphasizing sustainable agricultural and livelihood support.
Israel's Humanitarian Access Restrictions
- Israeli restrictions have drastically limited humanitarian access post-October 7th.
- These include permit denials, visa restrictions, and complex registration processes.
Politicized NGO Registration Criteria
- Israeli ministry criteria for NGO registration are politicized and onerous.
- Demands include submitting staff lists, risking NGO deregistration and loss of operation licenses.
