JERUSALEM, October 29, 2024: Israel’s parliament has voted to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), a decision that could have dire consequences for millions of Palestinians living under Israeli occupation.
The Knesset passed two bills: one prohibiting UNRWA’s activities within Israel and another barring Israeli authorities from engaging with the agency. This effectively revokes a 1967 treaty that allowed UNRWA to provide services to Palestinian refugees in areas under Israeli control.
The legislation passed with overwhelming support, garnering 92 votes in favor and 10 against for the first bill, and 87 votes in favor and 9 against for the second. Boaz Bismuth of the Likud party, a key supporter of the bill, stated, anyone that behaves like a terrorist has no rights in Israel…. UNRWA equals Hamas, period.
The decision was met with strong opposition from Arab Knesset members and significant international concern. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini criticized the ban, asserting that it violates international law and undermines the agency’s role in providing essential services to Palestinian refugees.
Several countries, including the United States, have expressed alarm over the ban’s potential effects on education, healthcare, and livelihoods for millions of Palestinians. Prior to the vote, the U.S. State Department urged Israel to reconsider, emphasizing UNRWA’s critical role, especially in Gaza. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that the legislation could have repercussions under U.S. law and policy.
Despite the widespread criticism, Knesset member Yuli Edelstein maintained that the ban would not harm humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, asserting that Israel is acting within the framework of international law.