Israel’s parliament has enacted a law banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating in the country.
This decision has raised concerns among Western allies about worsening the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Israeli officials cited the involvement of a few UNRWA staff members in the October 7, 2023, attacks on southern Israel, as well as some ties to Hamas and other militant groups. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that those UNRWA workers engaged in terrorist activities must be held accountable.
In response, UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini stated that the ban contradicts the UN charter and violates international law. He criticized the vote as part of an ongoing effort to undermine UNRWA’s mission to provide essential services to Palestinian refugees.
The ban coincided with intensified Israeli military actions in northern Gaza, where tanks moved deeper into the region, trapping around 100,000 civilians.
The Palestinian Civil Emergency Service reported that its operations were severely affected due to ongoing Israeli assaults, which have reportedly killed at least 19 people on the day of the ban.
Ceasefire discussions involving the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar resumed amid rising tensions. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi proposed a two-day truce to facilitate the exchange of hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners.
The conflict has further escalated regional tensions, with Israeli airstrikes on targets in Lebanon in retaliation for attacks by Iranian-backed Hezbollah. The ongoing violence has displaced many civilians and left northern Gaza’s healthcare facilities struggling to function.
As the situation evolves, residents express despair over the relentless conflict, fearing for their safety and futures amidst the chaos.