Israeli Knesset Passes Bill to Ban UNRWA from Operating in Israel
UNRWA’s Critical Role in Palestinian Aid
The Israeli Knesset has passed a controversial bill, with strong international condemnation, that effectively bans UNRWA from operating in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. This move is expected to significantly reduce aid distribution to war-ravaged Gaza.
What does the UNRWA bill entail?
The Knesset has approved two key pieces of legislation:
-
Prohibition of Official Contact:
- The first bill makes it illegal for Israeli officials to have any contact with UNRWA. This ban threatens to isolate the international aid agency in the Middle East.
- Operational Restrictions:
- The second bill prohibits UNRWA from operating within Israel’s borders, a rule that will come into effect in three months. This ban also affects the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip, where UNRWA provides critical services.
What activities will UNRWA lose the ability to perform?
The bills aim to Budgetary Aid for the activities such as:
- Camps and Infrastructure: Visionary stoppage of entrance permits for the agency to operate within the camps for Palestinian refugees.
- Transportation: The restriction on transporting assistance through Israeli territories to Palestinian communities in need.
UNRWA: A Comprehensive Look at Its Activities
Providing Essential Services
UNRWA: Established to provide assistance to Palestinian refugees; part of the UN General Assembly’s efforts following the 1948 Nakba. In operation since 1950, UNRWA supports millions of refugees through:
- Education: Almost 545,000 children in UNRWA schools as of 2021-2022.
- Healthcare: Akin to primary healthcare and mental health services; clinic providing circa 8.5 million visits annually.
- Social Services: Facilitating employment opportunities and microfinance programs for income generation.
Palestinian Refugee Support: Ensuring educational and healthcare facilities within and beyond refugee camps.
Global Impact of the Ban
Previous allegations against the UNRWA by Israeli authorities led to a worldwide scrutiny and subsequent funding cuts. However, following investigations, the agency reported that around 9 UNRWA employees were blamed and subsequently dismissed, addressing international precede of aidğini restricting. Now, as the ban comes into effect, UNRWA’s long-standing positive roles within the occupied territories are jeopardized.
Why Israel passed the bill?
Israeli pressure against UNRWA has escalated: Accusations during the October 7, 2023 attacks in the south orchestrated a global alliance to restrict UNRWA funding. Despite an investigation leading to terminations, the UN agency has witnessed restored funding.
Call to Action
It is imperative that we lend support and raise awareness regarding the impact these bills could have on Palestinian people. Please engage in discussions, contact your local representatives, and support organizations working behind the scenes to mitigate the crisis.
Make a difference by staying informed on the latest developments. Share this article and encourage your network to support the Palestinian cause.