Israel Passes Legislation Restricting UNRWA Operations

In a move that has sparked international concern, Israel's Knesset has passed a bill to severely limit the activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), the primary organization providing aid to Palestinians.

The legislation, approved in second and third readings by the Knesset, prohibits UNRWA from operating within Israel's territories, effectively crippling its ability to provide essential services to displaced Palestinians in Gaza.

The law, set to take effect after 90 days, bans UNRWA from conducting any activity, providing services, or maintaining representation within Israel's sovereign territory. While Gaza and the West Bank are technically excluded, the organization's day-to-day operations and logistics rely heavily on coordination with Israel and the use of Israeli-controlled land and crossing points.

UNRWA has played a vital role in distributing aid to over 90% of Gaza's population, who have been displaced by war into southern Gaza. However, Israel has banned the organization from operating in north Gaza, where 200,000 to 300,000 Palestinians face immense hardship.

The move has been met with strong opposition from international aid groups, Israel's Western allies, and the Biden administration, which has urged Israel to increase aid deliveries to Gaza. The U.S. has warned that a U.S. law may require reducing American weapons shipments to Israel unless the situation improves.

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Tensions between Israel and UNRWA escalated following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on southern Israel, which killed 1,200 Israelis and led to the capture of 250 hostages. Israel alleges that at least 12 UNRWA employees participated in the attack, while the agency initially denied the allegations. Later, UNRWA acknowledged that nine employees may have been involved and would be terminated.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over the legislation, warning of "devastating consequences" for Palestinians affected by the conflict. He emphasized that there is "no alternative" to UNRWA and called on Israel to adhere to its obligations under international law.

The U.N.'s acting humanitarian chief, Joyce Msuya, criticized Israeli forces for their "blatant disregard for basic humanity," citing attacks on hospitals, health workers, and first responders. She warned that the entire population of northern Gaza is at risk of dying.

The legislation has been condemned by international organizations, with many warning of the severe humanitarian implications for Palestinians in Gaza.