Jerusalem: With the Israeli enemy’s decision to cut ties with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) coming into effect last Thursday, UN and international warnings have been issued, stating that implementing this decision will have catastrophic consequences on the lives and future of Palestinian refugees.
According to Yemen News Agency, in a new escalation of international rejection of the Israeli entity’s decision to ban UNRWA’s operations, the Russian Foreign Ministry condemned this move. In a statement issued on Saturday, the Russian Foreign Ministry described these measures as deeply disappointing and deserving of condemnation, emphasizing the importance of UNRWA’s mission in supporting Palestinians.
The Belgian government also expressed its opposition, urging the Israeli entity to reverse the law passed by the Knesset. The Belgian Foreign Ministry highlighted the irreplaceable nature of UNRWA’s humanitarian aid, calling for a reversal of the ban.
Similarly, the Icel
andic Foreign Minister voiced regret over the decision, emphasizing the importance of supporting UNRWA for regional stability. In response to the ban, seven UN Security Council member states, including Belgium and Spain, issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s withdrawal from the 1967 agreement and emphasizing UNRWA’s crucial role in Gaza.
The United Kingdom, France, and Germany also raised concerns about the new law’s impact, particularly on Gaza’s reliance on humanitarian supplies. The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe stressed the necessity for UNRWA’s continued operations, calling for an end to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged the Israeli entity to withdraw the law, warning of severe consequences for Palestinians. UNRWA spokesperson Jonathan Fowler noted the potential collapse of essential services for refugees in the occupied West Bank, highlighting the humanitarian implications.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini addressed the
UN Security Council, warning of the impact on the ceasefire in Gaza and accusing the Israeli government of a disinformation campaign against UNRWA. Lazzarini reaffirmed Palestinian refugees’ inherent rights and UNRWA’s commitment to its mission despite challenges.
Despite the law’s implementation, UNRWA continues its services in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. UNRWA’s Director of Communications, Juliette Touma, confirmed ongoing operations and warned of the risks to the ceasefire if disruptions occur. She also highlighted the hostile environment faced by UNRWA staff due to escalating Israeli actions and the disinformation campaign.
On October 28, 2024, the Israeli Knesset enacted a law banning UNRWA’s activities, revoking the 1967 agreement, and prohibiting contact between Israeli officials and UNRWA employees, despite international warnings of treaty violations.