AMMAN: Arab and European countries, along with international organizations, have expressed strong condemnation following the Israeli Knesset’s decision to vote on a law prohibiting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from operating in the occupied Palestinian territories.
According to Jordan News Agency, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced his deep concern over the Knesset’s adoption of two laws affecting UNRWA. These laws, if enacted, would hinder the agency’s operations in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, which are mandated by the United Nations General Assembly. Guterres emphasized that national legislation cannot override these commitments, cautioning that the implementation of such laws would disrupt the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and jeopardize regional peace and security.
Guterres further highlighted the unacceptable impact of these laws on Palestinian refugees, urging Is
rael to adhere to its obligations under the United Nations Charter, international law, and the privileges and immunities granted to the United Nations.
Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, remarked that UNRWA serves as a critical lifeline for Palestinians and cautioned that the Knesset’s decision to ban it would have severe consequences.
Spain, Norway, Ireland, and Slovenia, in a joint statement, reiterated UNRWA’s mandate from the United Nations General Assembly, underscoring its essential role for millions of Palestinian refugees, particularly in Gaza. They pledged to continue collaborating with donor and host countries to ensure UNRWA’s humanitarian operations persist, warning that the Knesset’s legislation sets a dangerous precedent for the United Nations and multilateral organizations.
Egypt, in its response, condemned the Israeli actions, criticizing the restrictions on efforts to alleviate Palestinian suffering due to Israeli policies. Egypt called on
the international community and the UN, especially the Security Council, to confront ongoing Israeli violations of international law.
Iraq also condemned Israel’s move to ban UNRWA operations. Iraqi government spokesperson Basim Al-Awadi stressed that UNRWA’s role in supporting the refugee population is vital, noting that the ban threatens the safety and lives of millions, including vulnerable groups. The Iraqi government appealed to the international community to uphold humanitarian responsibilities and take decisive action against these violations.