Israel labeling UNRWA as a terrorist agency. Israel has passed two bills in its parliament, the Knesset, to ban the UN-approved aid agency. The lawmakers in Israel, described as the involvement of some it’s staffs in the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel and staff members of this agency having membership in Hamas and other armed groups. The head of UNRWA, Philippe Lazzarini, called the vote a “dangerous precedent” that opposes the U.N. charter and violates international law.
Background
UNRWA was created by United Nations in the year 1949 after the creation of the Israel State. Palestinian people who were there before the Nakba were forced to move without proper basic needs. To facilitate this UNRWA was formed to provide assistance to those in needs. Since then it has become the main humanitarian agency to provide assistance to the million of Palestinians in Gaza and to the Palestinian refugees in the occupied West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria.
International Outcry and the Humanitarian Impact
The decision by Israel has faced criticism from global organizations, with many highlighting that banning UNRWA will lead to devastating effects on Palestinian refugees. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus voiced alarm, stating that UNRWA has been an “irreplaceable lifeline” for Palestinian refugees and warning that barring the agency could lead to severe humanitarian consequences. “This is intolerable. It contravenes Israel’s obligations and responsibilities, and threatens the lives and health of all those who depend on UNRWA,” he said.
The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, in his words, labeling it’s work as “indispensable.” Guterres warned of “devastating consequences for Palestinian refugees in the Occupied Palestinian Territory,” calling on Israel to uphold its obligations under international law. It’s Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini also described the Knesset’s decision as a “dangerous precedent” that could deepen Palestinian suffering, especially in Gaza, where residents are enduring extreme hardship amidst ongoing conflicts.
Regional Stability at Risk
Beyond humanitarian concerns, many international leaders emphasize that the decision to ban, could destabilize an already fragile region. Belgium’s Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib stressed that UNRWA is crucial to regional stability, urging Israeli authorities to allow the agency to continue its UN-mandated work. Likewise, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned the Israeli legislation, asserting that UNRWA’s work is vital for meeting the basic needs of Gaza’s residents. She called on Israel to comply with orders from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to facilitate humanitarian aid.
The reaction from Jordan was particularly strong, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemning Israel’s decision as a violation of international law. The Jordanian government labeled the move as part of a campaign to “politically assassinate” and warned of catastrophic consequences if the agency’s services are restricted. This sentiment was echoed by a joint statement from Ireland, Norway, Slovenia, and Spain, all of which recognized Palestinian statehood and asserted that Israel’s actions set a concerning precedent for international cooperation and multilateral systems.
Political Ramifications for Israel
Israel’s decision has intensified its already strained relationship with several European and Middle Eastern nations. Switzerland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern about the “humanitarian, political, and legal implications” of the legislation, signaling that international responses could include diplomatic measures. China’s UN envoy, Fu Cong, deemed Israel’s actions “outrageous,” while Russia’s UN ambassador, Vasily Nebenzia, condemned the decision as “terrible,” adding that it exacerbates the crisis in Gaza.
These criticisms highlight the deepening divide between Israel and many of its Western allies, who view this as an essential stabilizing force. The controversy also casts a spotlight on the role of the United States, Israel’s primary ally, which recently withdrew funding by following accusations that some of the agency’s personnel were involved in the recent Hamas attacks against southern Israel. This withdrawal of funds has been criticized as disproportionate, with some advocates arguing that it’s broad humanitarian mandate should not be overshadowed by individual incidents.
The US is “deeply troubled” by the legislation passed Monday by the Knesset targeting the agency, saying that it could force the UN relief agency for Palestinian refugees to discontinue all of its operations in Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem, a State Department spokesperson.
Future of Aid in Gaza and the Role of UNRWA
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended Israel’s actions, stating that the legislation aims to protect national security. In a social media post, Netanyahu emphasized that while accountability is necessary, Israel is committed to avoiding a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He also mentioned a 90-day period before the legislation goes into effect, indicating Israel’s willingness to work with international partners to ensure the continued flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza’s civilians.
However, the effectiveness of alternative measures remains uncertain. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented that the agencies capabilities are “irreplaceable,” emphasizing that no other organization can deliver aid at the same “scale and pace.” Starmer further criticized the Knesset’s decision, warning that it risks making Gaza’s already dire humanitarian situation “unacceptable.”
UNRWA’s head, Philippe Lazzarini, expressed deep concern over the future of aid in Gaza, condemning the Israeli move as a “campaign to discredit UNRWA.” He warned that the legislation threatens to disrupt the agency’s ability to deliver crucial services, with repercussions that will be felt across the region.
Global Responsibility and Humanitarian Aid
The implications of Israel’s legislation extend beyond the Middle East, raising questions about the international community’s responsibility in supporting Palestinian refugees. With UNRWA’s future uncertain, global leaders are faced with the challenge of finding alternative means to support Palestinians in need. The joint condemnation by European and Middle Eastern nations suggests a growing consensus that the agency’s role is indispensable for maintaining regional stability and upholding humanitarian principles. While Israel has stated it is open to collaborating on alternative aid routes, the path forward remains complex. The Global community should take some actions to overcome this situation.
