In a controversial move, Israeli lawmakers have passed two laws that could jeopardize the work of the main U.N. agency providing aid to Gaza residents by potentially banning it from operating in Israeli territory. These laws, which are yet to take immediate effect, have raised concerns among international allies about the impact on Palestinians amidst worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
One law would prevent the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, from conducting any activities inside Israel, while another would sever diplomatic ties with the agency. This development further strains the already shaky relationship between Israel and the U.N., with allegations from Israel citing connections between some UNRWA staff and Hamas militants.
The passing of these laws, which aim to restrict the agency’s ability to support Palestinians in Gaza and other regions, is viewed as a significant setback for the provision of essential services to the already vulnerable population. The international community has expressed strong opposition to these measures, emphasizing the crucial role UNRWA plays in providing education, healthcare, and basic services to Palestinian refugees.
If implemented, these laws could dismantle the crucial aid distribution network in Gaza at a time when humanitarian needs are escalating. With an escalating death toll and ongoing conflict in the region, the future of aid provision remains uncertain, prompting calls for continued international dialogue and cooperation to address the pressing humanitarian crisis.