Jerusalem: The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) on Tuesday condemned the Israeli Knesset's vote on new legislation targeting the UN agency, describing the decision as "outrageous."
According to Jordan News Agency, the UNRWA stated that the legislation represents a direct violation of the mandate granted by the UN General Assembly and contradicts the International Court of Justice's rulings, which require Israel to uphold its responsibilities toward UNRWA and the broader United Nations system. The agency highlighted that the new law permits Israel to cut off essential services such as water, electricity, fuel, and telecommunications to UNRWA. It also grants Israel the power to seize UN properties in East Jerusalem, including its headquarters and training center. Furthermore, the law exempts Israel from its obligations under the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations, which UNRWA asserts is a breach of international law.
UNRWA emphasized that the legislation is part of a broader initiative to limit its operations in East Jerusalem and hinder its capacity to provide necessary humanitarian assistance and development services to Palestinian refugees. The International Court of Justice has affirmed that these services are crucial for safeguarding Palestinian rights, including their right to self-determination.
The agency expressed concern that Israel's unilateral actions directly impact its operations in the occupied Palestinian territories, including the Gaza Strip, where UNRWA plays a critical role in delivering humanitarian aid. Despite the challenges, UNRWA reaffirmed that the rights of Palestinian refugees are protected under international law, regardless of the agency's ability to continue its work.