UNITED NATIONS – On Wednesday, the U.N. Security Council issued a stern warning against any attempts to dismantle or restrict the operations of UNRWA, the United Nations agency responsible for Palestinian refugees, following the passing of an Israeli law that bans its activities.
In a unanimously adopted statement, the 15-member Council expressed deep concern over Israel’s recent legislation, urging the country to honor its international obligations. It called for Israel to respect the diplomatic protections granted to UNRWA under the U.N. Charter and a 1946 convention on U.N. privileges and immunities. The Council emphasized the essential role of UNRWA, describing it as “the backbone of all humanitarian response in Gaza,” with no alternative organization capable of fulfilling its role.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticized the Israeli law, asserting that its implementation would contravene international law and risk destabilizing critical aid efforts for Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, also voiced concerns that the agency’s operations could collapse under the new restrictions. The issue has added urgency as humanitarian aid to Gaza has reached record lows, and global hunger monitors warn of a potential famine.