Israel bans UNRWA operations in a major blow to aid efforts in Gaza

New Delhi, Oct 29: The Israeli passes legislation banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from operating within Israel and East Jerusalem marks a significant shift in the agency’s role in the region that is going to worry every nation supporting the UNRAW for humanitarian support to the needy in Gaza and surroundings.

Passed with a decisive majority, the legislation bars contact between UNRWA employees and Israeli officials, affecting the agency’s ability to provide essential services in Gaza and the West Bank.

Cooperation with Israeli military forces, even though difficult, has been important for UNRWA to transfer aid into Gaza, where nearly two million residents rely on the agency’s services, including medical aid, food, and education. With UNRWA staff losing their legal immunity in Israel, the agency’s headquarters in East Jerusalem faces closure.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres voiced grave concerns over the legislation, arguing it could hinder the Israeli-Palestinian peace process and jeopardise regional security.

UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini also condemned the ban, calling it “unprecedented” and asserting that it contravenes Israel’s obligations under international law. Countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany have similarly condemned Israel’s move, recognising UNRWA’s critical role in providing humanitarian aid in Gaza as reported by the media.

BBC said David Lammy, the UK Foreign Secretary, labelled the legislation “totally wrong,” and U.S. officials emphasised that UNRWA’s assistance in Gaza is crucial, particularly given the ongoing hostilities and heightened need for relief supplies.

Background on UNRWA and Donor Support

Established in 1949, UNRWA was created to assist Palestinian refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and Gaza. It has become one of the primary UN agencies serving Palestinian communities, offering healthcare, education, and emergency assistance services.

Today, over 5 million Palestinian refugees are registered with UNRWA, with around 2.5 million residing in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip. Since its inception, UNRWA has been funded almost exclusively by voluntary donations from UN member states. The United States, European Union countries, and Japan have been the primary donors, though in recent years, several Gulf nations have stepped in to fill funding gaps left by shifting U.S. policies.

India’s Role and Humanitarian Assistance

India’s involvement with UNRWA has traditionally focused on financial aid and humanitarian support for Palestinians. Since October 2023, India has actively responded to the escalating conflict in Gaza by supplying vital aid to Palestinians through UNRWA. Just recently, India dispatched 30 tons of medicine, food items, and essential medical supplies. This consignment, comprising high-energy biscuits, surgical supplies, and general medical items, highlights India’s commitment to humanitarian assistance. Additionally, India’s longstanding support for a two-state solution has shaped its diplomatic stance, advocating for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Rising Israeli-UNRWA Tensions

Israel has long been critical of UNRWA, accusing the agency of bias and alleging collusion with Hamas in Gaza. Tensions have recently intensified, with the Israeli government claiming that UNRWA employees participated in Hamas-led attacks. Although the UN investigated and dismissed several staff members, it stated that no conclusive evidence supported Israel’s broader allegations. In defending its actions, UNRWA has emphasised that any interactions with Hamas are necessary for the provision of aid and are strictly limited to logistical operations.

With this recent legislation, UNRWA’s mission in the region faces a critical test, raising urgent questions about how Palestinian refugees’ needs will be met and who will provide the support necessary for their survival. The agency’s uncertain future highlights the complexities surrounding humanitarian assistance in one of the world’s most protracted and volatile conflicts.