Israel Bans UN Relief Agency Operations, Drawing International Condemnation
Jerusalem, October 29, 2024 – The Israeli Knesset (parliament)has passed two controversial bills effectively banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from operating within Israel. Themove has sparked widespread international condemnation, with the UN Secretary-General expressing deep concern over the potential devastating consequences for Palestinian refugees in the occupied territories.
The first bill, passed with 92 votes in favor and 10 against, prohibits UNRWA from conducting any activities or providing services within Israel. The second bill, approved with 87 votes in favor and 9 against, severs all official contact between Israel and UNRWA.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a statement denouncing the legislation, emphasizing that UNRWA is the primary provider of essential aid to Palestinian refugees in the occupied territories.The implementation of these laws could have devastating consequences for Palestinian refugees in the occupied territories, and this is unacceptable, Guterres stated. He further argued that the legislation would be detrimental to peace and security in the region and hinder efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Guterres urged Israel to uphold its obligations under the UNCharter and international law, asserting that national legislation cannot supersede these obligations.
The move has drawn criticism from various international actors. The UNRWA Commissioner-General, Philippe Lazzarini, described the legislation as a dangerous precedent that violates the UN Charter and international legal obligations. A joint statement from Spain, Slovenia,Ireland, and Norway condemned the Israeli parliament’s actions.
The legislation has been met with mixed reactions within Israel. Supporters argue that UNRWA is biased against Israel and has become a breeding ground for anti-Israel sentiment. Opponents, however, contend that the move will exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the occupied territories andfurther complicate the already fragile peace process.
The passage of these bills marks a significant escalation in the long-standing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people. The international community is closely watching the situation, with concerns mounting over the potential for further instability and violence in the region.
References:
- United Nationswebsite: [Link to UN website]
- The Guardian: [Link to The Guardian article]
- Xinhua News Agency: [Link to Xinhua News Agency article]
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