Israel’s parliament recently voted to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating in Israel. The decision also labels UNRWA a terrorist organisation, blocking any official contact between Israel and the agency. UNRWA has provided vital support to Palestinians for decades, making this move a major shift in Israel’s policies.
What Is UNRWA, and Why Was It Banned?
Founded in 1949, UNRWA was created to help Palestinians who lost their homes in the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. Today, it provides aid to millions of Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and across the Middle East. However, Israeli lawmakers now argue that UNRWA poses security risks, accusing some of its Gaza staff of connections to recent attacks by Hamas.
How the Ban Affects Aid in Gaza
This new law could disrupt UNRWA’s critical work in Gaza, where food, medicine, and other aid are already in short supply. The legislation also blocks work permits for UNRWA staff in Israel and prevents coordination with the Israeli military, which may stop aid shipments at border points like Rafah.
UNRWA spokesperson Juliette Touma warned that these restrictions would worsen Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, where over 1.9 million people already face serious shortages. Global leaders, including the UK Prime Minister and US officials, have also raised concerns, urging Israel to delay the law’s enforcement.
International Concerns and Diplomatic Reactions
This decision has drawn international criticism. Foreign ministers from Canada, Australia, France, Germany, and the UK oppose the ban, arguing that many Palestinians will lose critical services without UNRWA. The US has voiced similar concerns, with State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller calling UNRWA’s work in Gaza “irreplaceable.”
Allegations Against UNRWA Staff
Israeli officials claim some UNRWA employees have supported or aided Hamas, which led the UN to investigate. As a result, the UN fired nine employees. This controversy even caused the US and EU to temporarily suspend funding to UNRWA, though they resumed support after initial investigations.
UNRWA’s Role in Palestinian Support
UNRWA is a primary source of aid for Palestinians, providing essentials like food, healthcare, and education to millions. With 13,000 staff members in Gaza alone, it plays a key role in supporting displaced Palestinian families, many of whom live in refugee camps.
What Lies Ahead for UNRWA and Gaza?
Israel’s new policy may create more obstacles for UNRWA in the West Bank and Gaza. While the law hasn’t taken full effect, international leaders are asking Israel to reconsider, emphasising the need for continued aid in Gaza. As discussions continue, the global community is seeking a balance between security and the urgent humanitarian needs in the region.
