Israel’s parliament has recently passed new laws that designate UNRWA (the United Nations Relief and Works Agency) as a terrorist organization. This significant move could disrupt humanitarian aid efforts for millions of Palestinians in Gaza.

The legislation, which passed with a vote of 92 to 10, will cut all diplomatic ties between Israel and UNRWA. It also prevents the agency from operating on Israeli soil and prohibits Israeli officials from having any contact with UNRWA staff. Additionally, the laws strip UNRWA employees of their legal protections, meaning they cannot carry out any activities or provide services inside Israel.

This decision comes at a time when the humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire. Over 1.9 million Palestinians have been displaced from their homes, facing severe shortages of food, water, and medicine. Experts warn that these new laws could cripple the already fragile aid distribution system, making it even harder for people in Gaza to receive the assistance they desperately need.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused UNRWA workers of supporting terrorist activities, particularly in connection with the Hamas attacks on October 7, which resulted in significant casualties. He stated that UNRWA staff must be held accountable for their actions. However, UNRWA has responded by terminating contracts for several employees accused of involvement in the attacks, and a review found no evidence supporting claims that a large number of its staff were affiliated with militant groups.

The implications of these laws are not just local; they have caught the attention of the US government. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller expressed deep concerns, emphasizing that UNRWA plays a critical role in delivering humanitarian aid in Gaza and that the US government is worried about the potential fallout from Israel’s decision. Miller reiterated that UNRWA’s role is irreplaceable, highlighting the importance of their work in providing essential services to Palestinians both in Gaza and the broader region.

As the humanitarian crisis deepens, the international community watches closely, concerned about the impact of Israel’s legislation on the lives of millions in Gaza.

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