Jerusalem, Israel: In a controversial move, Israel’s parliament has passed a law prohibiting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within the nation. The decision has drawn significant international attention, with Israel’s allies expressing concerns over potential adverse effects on Gaza’s humanitarian situation. UNRWA, which has provided critical support to Palestine refugees since 1949, now faces unprecedented restrictions, raising questions about access to essential services for thousands.
Israeli lawmakers who advocated for the ban cited allegations of UNRWA staff involvement in the October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel. Officials also alleged that some UNRWA employees had connections to Hamas, which Israel and several other nations have designated as a terrorist organization, along with other armed groups. Following the announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that “UNRWA workers involved in terrorist activities against Israel must be held accountable.”
The ban has met fierce resistance from global leaders. UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the measure, calling it a severe threat to the welfare of Palestine refugees. “If implemented, the laws adopted today by the Knesset would likely prevent UNRWA from continuing its essential work in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, with devastating consequences for Palestine refugees,” Guterres posted on X. He urged Israel to honor its obligations under the UN Charter and international law, emphasizing that national legislation should not supersede these commitments.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini also criticized the law, arguing that it undermines the agency’s long-standing mission. “This is the latest in the ongoing campaign to discredit UNRWA and delegitimize its role toward providing human-development assistance and services to Palestine refugees,” Lazzarini posted.
Escalating Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The legislative move coincided with intensifying Israeli military operations in Gaza. As Israeli tanks advanced further into northern Gaza, the Palestinian emergency services reported that over 100,000 civilians are trapped in Jabalia, Beit Lahiya, and Beit Hanoun. Residents remain without access to essential medical supplies, food, or transportation. The emergency service stated it had suspended operations due to the conflict, which has disrupted life in Gaza for over three weeks.
In addition to ground advances, Israeli airstrikes targeted various locations in northern Gaza on Monday, with the local health ministry reporting at least 19 fatalities. In an operation on the Jabalia refugee camp, the Israeli military detained around 100 individuals they identified as militants. However, both Hamas representatives and medical personnel at the hospital in Jabalia have denied the presence of militants at the site.
As the situation unfolds, international leaders and humanitarian organizations warn of a deepening crisis. Concerns over Israel’s UNRWA ban persist as discussions continue on ensuring that Gaza’s civilian population has access to vital resources amidst the ongoing conflict.
