Israel’s parliament voted to ban the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, citing allegations of terrorist activities among its employees. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the agency of supporting terrorism and said that UNRWA personnel must be held accountable. The U.S. State Department expressed concerns about the ban, stating that no one can replace UNRWA’s aid efforts in Gaza during the current crisis.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini responded to the ban, criticizing it for violating the U.N. charter and endangering Palestinian children who rely on the agency for assistance. Netanyahu and his government have long been critical of UNRWA, arguing that it perpetuates a false narrative about Palestinian refugees. Despite international concerns, the Israeli legislation passed with support from parliament members who believe UNRWA’s work is counterproductive in the region.
Foreign ministers from several countries issued a statement expressing grave concern over the ban, emphasizing the importance of UNRWA’s humanitarian aid efforts. The international community is urging Israel to reconsider its decision and allow UNRWA to continue its operations. Critics of the ban argue that ending UNRWA’s services will not resolve the refugee crisis and could further destabilize the region. The tensions between Israel and UNRWA have escalated in recent years, leading to the ban on the agency’s operations in Gaza.
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