Israel passed a law on Monday banning UNRWA from operating in the country, a move that could impact the UN Palestinian refugee agency's work in war-torn Gaza. The legislation was drafted by lawmakers who cited the alleged involvement of some UNRWA staffers in a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel. They also claimed that some UNRWA staffers were members of Hamas and other armed groups.
The United Nations and some of Israel's Western allies have expressed alarm over the law, fearing that it could worsen the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. UNRWA provides education, health, and aid to millions of Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria.
UNRWA has long had tense relations with Israel, but ties have deteriorated sharply since the start of the war in Gaza. Israel has called for UNRWA to be disbanded and its responsibilities transferred to other UN agencies.
UNRWA's chief Philippe Lazzarini criticized the ban, stating that it violates Israel's international obligations and sets a dangerous precedent. He warned that the move will deprive over 650,000 children of education and put an entire generation at risk.
Israeli lawmaker Sharren Haskel defended the ban, stating that if the United Nations is not willing to root out terrorism within UNRWA, then measures must be taken to protect the Israeli people. Other lawmakers have argued that organizations like UNRWA do not contribute to stability, security, or peace in the Middle East.
Foreign ministers from several countries, including France, Germany, Britain, Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Australia, have expressed grave concern over the law. They emphasize the importance of UN organizations being able to deliver humanitarian aid effectively to those in need.
The situation remains tense as humanitarian missions are being prevented from reaching parts of northern Gaza, including the Jabalia refugee camp, and critical supplies are not reaching those in need. The impact of the ban on UNRWA's operations in Gaza and the surrounding regions is yet to be fully realized.