Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the immediate enforcement of the UNRWA law on Tuesday. This law, which had broad support in the Knesset, targets the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The agency has been a crucial provider of humanitarian aid to Palestinian refugees.
Official Announcement from the Prime Minister’s Office
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) shared the news in a post on X, stating, “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed that the UNRWA law, which was passed by the Knesset with broad support, be enforced immediately.” The statement further emphasized that “There are no restrictions on the implementation of the Prime Minister’s directive.”
Knesset’s Legislative Actions Against UNRWA
In October 2024, the Knesset passed two laws aiming to end UNRWA’s operations within Israeli-controlled territory. Additionally, Israel ordered UNRWA to vacate its premises in East Jerusalem by January 30, 2025 and cease its operations there.
US Involvement: Trump’s Executive Orders
This action follows US President Donald Trump’s executive orders to cut funding to UNRWA earlier this month. These moves mark a significant shift in the US-Israel stance on Palestinian aid.
History of UNRWA and Its Role
UNRWA was established in 1949 by the UN General Assembly in response to the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. The agency provides essential services like healthcare, education, and vocational training to Palestinian refugees in areas such as the West Bank and Gaza Strip. These services are crucial for millions of refugees who are still displaced by the ongoing conflict.
Global Concerns and International Reactions
The decision to enforce the UNRWA law has drawn significant international concern. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the ban on UNRWA would have “devastating consequences” for Palestinian refugees. Moreover, Joyce Msuya, acting head of the UN aid office, condemned the decision as “dangerous and outrageous.” Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of UNRWA, expressed that the new laws would “increase the suffering of Palestinians” and constitute “collective punishment.”
