Israel Bans UNRWA Activities Amid Ongoing Conflict

Israel's Knesset has enacted two significant laws banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) from operating within Israel, designating it as a terrorist organization. This legislation, which restricts UNRWA's ability to provide critical services to millions of Palestinians, has raised alarms among international observers and humanitarian organizations, as Gaza's population relies heavily on its aid. While Israel cites concerns over Hamas infiltrating the agency, critics argue that the move aims to diminish the Palestinian refugee issue. The Biden administration and several allied countries have urged Israel to reconsider the legislation, warning it could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Supporters of UNRWA emphasize the agency’s vital role in delivering food, healthcare, and education, while Israel contemplates alternative methods for aid distribution amid ongoing conflict. The UNRWA Commissioner General described the legislative action as unprecedented and a dangerous precedent that violates international law.