Effective January 30, 2025, Israel has ordered the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to halt all operations within its borders. This action follows persistent allegations of UNRWA’s involvement with Hamas and its perceived threat to Israeli national security.
Israel’s decision culminates years of efforts to distance itself from UNRWA, which it contends undermines its security.
Legislation passed in October 2024 prohibits UNRWA’s operation within Israel, forbids any communication or collaboration with its representatives, and mandates the evacuation of all UNRWA facilities in Jerusalem, including those in Maalot Dafna and Kafr Aqab. The law directly addresses accusations of Hamas infiltration within UNRWA’s ranks.
Addressing the United Nations, Israeli UN Ambassador Danny Danon declared the move necessary, asserting that no sovereign nation should tolerate an agency that jeopardizes its security.
Danon emphasized that the decision was not politically motivated but a response to UNRWA’s alleged long-standing failures, including purported complicity in terrorism. He stated that UNRWA has demonstrably failed its mandate and the people it was intended to serve.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini strongly condemned Israel’s actions, characterizing the ban as disastrous.
Before the UN Security Council, Lazzarini argued that the Israeli legislation’s full implementation would severely hinder humanitarian aid in Gaza and the West Bank. He highlighted UNRWA’s recent humanitarian efforts, including food distribution, shelter provision, and vaccination campaigns.
Lazzarini emphasized UNRWA’s significant presence in Gaza and warned that the ongoing attacks on the agency harm Palestinians’ lives and futures. He referenced the recent ceasefire and expressed hope for improved conditions.
The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that humanitarian aid is distinct from UNRWA, emphasizing that UNRWA’s alleged Hamas ties necessitate the termination of contact. Israel reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating humanitarian aid to Gaza through alternative organizations and even increased aid deliveries beyond the previously agreed-upon framework.
Israeli Member of Parliament Yulia Malinovsky, a key figure in the legislation’s creation, voiced her support for the decision, criticizing international bodies for their perceived hypocrisy regarding UNRWA’s role. She accused UNRWA of causing suffering in Gaza and of complicity in acts of violence, referencing accusations of employee involvement in the October 7th massacre and hostage-taking.
The Israeli action follows a Congressional review of foreign aid to various groups and a pause in UNRWA funding last year due to allegations of employee involvement in the October 7th massacre.
The international community now faces the challenge of replacing UNRWA’s services, while Israel maintains its stance against what it deems terrorism disguised as aid, though expressing willingness to collaborate with other UN agencies.
Danon reiterated Israel’s commitment to international law and its willingness to cooperate with other untainted UN agencies.
Malinovsky asserted that international pressure to overturn Israel’s decision is unwarranted, emphasizing Israel’s sovereignty and its unwavering commitment to national security.