Israel’s parliament has enacted a controversial law that designates the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) as a terrorist organization, effectively severing diplomatic ties and barring its operations within Israeli territory. The legislation prohibits any activities by UNRWA in Israel and strips its staff of legal immunities, raising concerns about the humanitarian impact in Gaza, where the crisis is already severe.
The vote, which passed 92-10, follows heated debates, primarily involving Arab parliamentary parties who oppose the measures. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that UNRWA workers must be held accountable for what he termed their “terrorist activities” against Israel. This legislation risks further complicating aid distribution at a time when over 1.9 million Palestinians are displaced and facing acute shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
The situation is exacerbated by accusations from Israel that some UNRWA staff participated in the October 7 Hamas attacks, which claimed around 1,200 lives and resulted in the kidnapping of approximately 250 hostages. In retaliation, Israel’s military actions in Gaza have led to over 42,000 reported deaths, according to local health authorities.
The U.S. State Department has voiced significant concerns regarding this ban, emphasizing UNRWA’s vital role in delivering humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza. U.S. spokesperson Matthew Miller noted that the agency is critical not only for Gaza but also for Palestinians throughout the West Bank and the region. The implications of this legislation could extend to U.S. law and policy, highlighting the delicate balance between humanitarian needs and political actions in the region.
