Israel Demands UNRWA Exit Jerusalem by January 30

Israel has mandated that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) must cease its operations in Jerusalem and vacate its premises by January 30, 2025, following new legislation that bars the agency from operating in Israel and East Jerusalem. This directive, communicated by Israel's UN ambassador Danny Danon, alleges that UNRWA has been infiltrated by terrorist organizations like Hamas, with claims that some agency employees were involved in the October 7, 2023, attacks. Despite these accusations, UNRWA, which provides vital humanitarian aid to millions of Palestinian refugees, emphasizes its commitment to neutrality and the necessity of its operations in maintaining stability in the region. The Israeli legislation also prohibits contact between Israeli officials and UNRWA, complicating future aid efforts. UNRWA's chief has warned that halting operations could jeopardize the ceasefire in Gaza and harm those dependent on its services. The situation remains contentious as both Israel and the UN navigate the implications of this decision.