The Palestinian leadership has condemned a recent decision by Israel’s Knesset, which prohibits the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), as a violation of international law. This stance was expressed by Nabil Abu Rudeineh, spokesperson for the Palestinian Authority.
"We strongly condemn Israel's decision against UNRWA, as it breaches international law and challenges all UN resolutions," Abu Rudeineh told the Palestinian news agency WAFA. He argued that the Knesset's decision is an attempt to "eliminate the Palestinian refugee issue" and promised that the Palestinian Authority (PA) "will not allow this." He also called on the international community to revoke Israel's legitimacy on the global stage over this action.
On Monday, the Knesset approved a law prohibiting UNRWA from operating within Israeli territory, passing the legislation with 92 votes in favor and 10 against. This new law restricts the agency from establishing offices, offering services, or engaging in any form of direct or indirect activity in Israel. The bill was introduced following reports alleging UNRWA staff involvement in an October 7, 2023, attack. Israeli authorities have repeatedly claimed that numerous UNRWA staff members are also involved with Hamas’s military wing.
Founded in 1949, UNRWA provides medical, social, food, and educational services to approximately 5.9 million Palestinian refugees across Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. The agency’s operations are funded through voluntary contributions from UN member states, the European Union, and international non-governmental organizations.
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Based on TASS materials