Israel Bans UNRWA Operations Amid Outcry

On October 28, the Israeli Knesset passed legislation banning the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating in Israel and occupied Palestine, a decision condemned by multiple international organizations including the World Health Organization (WHO) and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the ban would worsen the humanitarian situation in Gaza and increase the risk of disease outbreaks. The legislation follows Israel's claims linking UNRWA to terrorism, which an independent review found unsupported by evidence. The ban is expected to take effect by the end of January, severely affecting the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to millions of Palestinians. King Abdullah of Jordan urged the international community to reject Israel’s actions and increase aid to Gaza, emphasizing the need for humanitarian support amidst escalating conflict. Critics argue that the ban on UNRWA will exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and hinder access to vital services for Palestinians.