UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has written to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressing serious concerns about a new law banning the UN Relief Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from operating in Israel. The message was sent on October 29, one day after the Knesset passed a law restricting the agency’s work.
Guterres noted in the letter:
“These laws could prevent the agency from carrying out an important mission in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including the West Bank (Judea and Samaria), East Jerusalem and Gaza. And also have devastating consequences for Palestinian refugees, since there is currently no viable alternative that could provide the necessary services and assistance”
In the letter, Guterres stressed that Israel, in accordance with international law, is obliged to allow the agency to continue its work in the specified territories, including East Jerusalem. He recalled that, according to UN decisions, “the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza are considered part of the occupied Palestinian territory over which Israel has no right of sovereignty or exercise of sovereign powers.”
Reaction to the new law also came from Washington. US representatives expressed their concern about the possible consequences for American policy towards Israel. The US State Department noted the importance of UNRWA’s work in the Gaza Strip and emphasized that it had conveyed its position to the Israeli authorities.
Let us recall that the law adopted on October 28 prohibits the UNRWA agency from having representative offices and providing services in Israel. This means that the agency’s work in East Jerusalem must be terminated and its functions transferred to local authorities. The bill was approved by the Knesset with an overwhelming majority: 92 votes in favor and 10 against.
Kursor also reported that Geert Wilders responded to the UNRWA law.
Interview between Time.news Editor and International Relations Expert
Time.news Editor: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. We’re here to discuss the recent developments surrounding the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, or UNRWA, particularly in light of the new law passed by the Knesset. Joining us is Dr. Maria Hassan, an esteemed expert in international relations and Middle Eastern politics. Dr. Hassan, welcome!
Dr. Maria Hassan: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. On October 29, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed serious concerns to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding this law that prohibits UNRWA from operating in Israel. Why is this such a significant issue?
Dr. Hassan: This situation is quite critical, as UNRWA plays a vital role in providing support to Palestinian refugees. By limiting its operations, the new law jeopardizes essential services like education, healthcare, and social welfare, which many depend on in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Guterres’s letter underscores the impact on humanitarian efforts in an already challenging environment.
Editor: That makes sense. What do you think motivated the Israeli government to enact such legislation?
Dr. Hassan: There are multiple factors at play. Some Israeli lawmakers view UNRWA as perpetuating the refugee status of Palestinians, believing that it undermines the state’s legitimacy. They may see this law as a way to reinforce their stance and assert control over the narrative regarding the Palestinian issue. However, it risks exacerbating humanitarian conditions and deepening the cycle of conflict.
Editor: Absolutely. Guterres indicated that these laws could prevent UNRWA from fulfilling its mission not only in the West Bank but also in Gaza. How do you foresee this affecting the situation on the ground?
Dr. Hassan: The repercussions could be quite severe. If UNRWA is unable to operate, there will likely be an immediate impact on basic services for refugees. This could lead to increased poverty and instability, creating tensions between communities. Moreover, it could limit any potential for dialogue or resolution as the humanitarian crisis deepens.
Editor: With rising tensions, is there a risk that this could escalate into wider conflict?
Dr. Hassan: Unfortunately, yes. Humanitarian crises often fuel unrest and can escalate if not addressed. We must remember that livelihoods, dignity, and access to basic needs are at stake. The international community will need to advocate strongly for UNRWA’s role and push for policies that prioritize humanitarian concerns over political agendas.
Editor: Speaking of the international community, what actions do you think should be taken in response to this law?
Dr. Hassan: The international community should come together to advocate for the rights of Palestinian refugees and support UNRWA’s mandate. This could include diplomatic pressure on Israel to reconsider the law, increased funding for UNRWA to bolster its capacity, and strong statements from global leaders emphasizing the importance of humanitarian work in conflict zones.
Editor: Those sound like actionable steps. How can ordinary citizens help in such a complex geopolitical issue?
Dr. Hassan: Ordinary citizens can raise awareness and advocate for humane policies by engaging with non-governmental organizations focused on humanitarian aid. Supporting campaigns that foster dialogue, sharing information on social media, and participating in community discussions can also make a difference. Ultimately, a groundswell of public support can influence policymakers.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Hassan, for your insights on this intricate issue. It’s clear that the consequences of such legislation extend far beyond politics, affecting countless lives in the process.
Dr. Hassan: Thank you for having me. It’s important to keep these discussions alive, as they are crucial to understanding the broader context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Editor: Absolutely. We’ll continue to follow this story closely. Thank you all for joining us for today’s discussion. Until next time!