Israel is facing growing international criticism following a new law passed by its parliament on Tuesday banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from operating within Israel and annexed East Jerusalem. Despite opposition from the U.S. and warnings from the UN Security Council, the legislation passed overwhelmingly, effectively barring UNRWA from providing aid and services that it has offered to Palestinian refugees across Gaza, the West Bank, and beyond for over seven decades.
The law additionally prohibits Israeli officials from working with UNRWA employees, with one of the bill’s sponsors, Yuli Edelstein, alleging that there are connections between UNRWA and Hamas, the Palestinian militant group controlling Gaza. Palestinian groups have called the ban an escalation, with Hamas and its ally Islamic Jihad condemning it as part of “Zionist aggression” and an “escalation in genocide.”
International leaders have also expressed concern, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stating Britain is “gravely concerned” and Germany warning that the law threatens crucial humanitarian aid for millions in Gaza and East Jerusalem. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres cautioned that the measure could have “devastating consequences.”
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini warned that the decision “sets a dangerous precedent,” potentially blocking millions of Palestinians from accessing vital resources.
Amid ongoing conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated a commitment to provide aid to Gaza in a manner that does not “threaten Israel’s security.” However, regional violence continues to escalate, with recent air raids by Israeli forces in Gaza and cross-border clashes with Hezbollah in Lebanon, leaving thousands dead or injured in both Gaza and Lebanon.
