The Israeli parliament has approved two bills that ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from operating within Israel and areas under its control. The new laws, passed on Monday, could dismantle crucial aid operations in Palestinian territories where humanitarian needs are critical.
The first law prohibits UNRWA from conducting “any activity” or offering any service within Israeli territory. It passed with strong support, tallying 92-10, amid heated debates in the Knesset. Opposition came mainly from Arab party members who argued the ban would worsen living conditions for Palestinians reliant on aid. The second law, passed 87-9, labels UNRWA a “terror” organization. It bars Israeli officials from any contact with the agency, intensifying restrictions on humanitarian work in Palestinian areas.
Timeline and Scope of the Ban
The ban is set to take effect within 90 days. It will lead to the closure of UNRWA’s offices in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza. This shutdown effectively blocks UNRWA from delivering essential services in these regions, paralyzing its mandate to support Palestinian refugees—a mission endorsed by the UN General Assembly since 1949. With the humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalating, critics warn that this move could lead to significant suffering among vulnerable populations.
UNRWA has been the main provider of humanitarian assistance in Gaza, especially during heightened conflict periods. Israel’s military operations over the past year have left Gaza in devastation, with extensive damage to infrastructure and basic services. Hundreds of UNRWA workers have been killed in these attacks, marking one of the deadliest conflicts for UN employees. The ban on UNRWA’s activities raises concerns that the current aid distribution in Gaza will collapse, worsening the conditions for residents facing severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
UNRWA Chief Condemns the Ban
UNRWA’s Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini condemned the legislation, calling it “a dangerous precedent.” He stressed that it would “only deepen the suffering of Palestinians” and fuel tensions across the region. Speaking on X, formerly known as Twitter, Lazzarini stated, “This is the latest in the ongoing campaign to discredit UNRWA… These bills will only deepen the suffering of Palestinians.”
UNRWA Spokesperson Calls Move “Outrageous”
In a separate statement, UNRWA spokesperson Juliette Touma criticized Israel’s decision, calling it “outrageous.” Speaking to AFP, she said, “It’s outrageous that a member state of the United Nations is working to dismantle a UN agency which also happens to be the largest responder in the humanitarian operation in Gaza.” Touma warned that these actions could disrupt essential services that millions of Palestinians depend on, especially at a time when their needs are surging.
Global Reactions and Humanitarian Concerns
The bills have sparked widespread concern among international observers and human rights advocates. Many fear that banning UNRWA will not only reduce aid but also deepen the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and other Palestinian areas. Human rights organizations have appealed for reconsideration, stressing that the decision could have dire consequences for the most vulnerable populations.
A Strain on Israeli-Palestinian Relations
This legislation marks a significant strain on Israeli-Palestinian relations, potentially fueling further tension. Analysts note that targeting a UN agency could set a precedent, impacting future humanitarian operations and limiting the reach of international aid in conflict zones. As the crisis intensifies, the world watches to see how the ban will impact Palestinian communities and the region’s stability.
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