JERUSALEM: Israeli lawmakers passed two laws on Monday that could threaten the operations of the main U.N. agency for Palestinian aid (UNRWA) by barring it from working on Israeli soil, severing ties, and labeling it a terror organization. The laws, yet to take effect, mark a new low in Israel-U.N. relations and could impact Palestinians as Gaza’s humanitarian toll rises.
The first law would ban UNRWA from providing services within Israel, while the second would cut diplomatic ties with the agency. UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini criticized these as part of a “campaign to discredit” the agency, which provides essential services to Palestinians. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that the laws would prevent UNRWA from fulfilling its U.N.-mandated work, urging Israel to adhere to international obligations.
With Gaza facing severe shortages, Israel’s international allies, including the U.S., voiced concern, warning of a humanitarian impact. Meanwhile, Israel has claimed UNRWA staff have ties to militants, which the agency denies, stating that it promptly addresses any such issues.
The death toll in Gaza has reportedly surpassed 43,000, primarily affecting women and children. Amid mounting U.S. pressure, international mediators, including Egypt, are exploring a potential two-day ceasefire in Gaza, which Israel has signaled it is open to discussing.
