Israel Moves Against UN Agency Amidst Accusations of Terrorism

Israel’s parliament has taken preliminary steps to designate the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) as a terrorist organization. This legislative move also proposes stripping the UN agency of its immunities and could end its operations within Israel. Additionally, the Israel Land Authority has issued a directive for UNRWA to vacate premises in East Jerusalem, accusing it of unauthorized use of state land. This action contradicts the UN Security Council’s stance, which has criticized Israeli settlements in occupied territories as violations of international law. The bills under consideration would criminalize UNRWA’s activities and its staff, directly impacting its ability to deliver essential services such as education, healthcare, and social services to Palestinian refugees, particularly in Gaza where 1.7 million people depend on its assistance.
The backdrop of these developments includes accusations from Israel against UNRWA staff members for alleged involvement in a Hamas attack, although no evidence has been presented. Simultaneously, Israel has been implicated in the deaths of 192 UNRWA staff and the destruction of numerous UNRWA facilities since October 7. The allegations have led to a temporary cessation of funding from Western countries, although the EU and most nations have resumed their support, while the UK and the US continue to withhold funding. This situation underscores the broader conflict over Israel’s military actions in Palestinian territories and the international community’s response to the humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinian refugees. Critics argue that such moves against UNRWA represent an attempt to further undermine the rights and welfare of Palestinian people.