Who will take responsibility for Palestinian relief amid UNRWA's uncertain future?

The situation surrounding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has become increasingly precarious due to an Israeli law set to take effect. This law bans the agency's operations on Israeli land and prohibits contact with Israeli authorities, raising concerns about the future of millions of Palestinians relying on UNRWA for essential services. As of now, UNRWA operates in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, which the United Nations categorizes as Israeli-occupied territories. Its services encompass critical areas such as health, education, and social welfare, impacting a population that has been facing severe humanitarian challenges, particularly in light of ongoing hostilities between Israel and Palestinian militant groups. In December 2023, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres communicated to Israel that if UNRWA is forced to cease its operations, the responsibility to provide the required services would fall on Israel, given its obligations under international law. Guterres emphasized that while other U.N. agencies could potentially offer some assistance, they do not possess the same resources or capabilities as UNRWA to adequately support the Palestinian population. He urged that any deficit in aid should not absolve Israel of its responsibilities. The debate over who should fill the void left by UNRWA is further complicated by the varying perspectives among stakeholders. Israel has long criticized UNRWA, claiming it perpetuates a cycle of dependency among Palestinians. Amid these tensions, Israel's U.N. representative has contended that the Israeli authority does not exercise effective control over Gaza and therefore does not assume the role of an occupying power. He pointed to the Palestinian Authority's responsibilities in the West Bank, stating that these should not be overlooked in discussions about aid and assistance. Concerns regarding humanitarian conditions in Gaza have intensified, especially after the latest outbreak of conflict, which led to significant casualties and a mounting humanitarian crisis. Figures from Palestinian health officials indicate that over 46,000 lives have been lost as a result of the recent violence. With extensive aid structures jeopardized, experts warn of forthcoming famine conditions. The international community, including the United States, has called on Israel to ensure that the new law does not impede aid and essential services, a directive met with skepticism based on prior experiences with U.N. contingency planning. Ultimately, the fate of UNRWA hangs in the balance. With the agency serving the health, education, and social needs of millions of Palestinians, its potential closure signifies not only the loss of an essential resource but also escalates an already dire situation for Palestinian civilians caught in the ongoing conflict. The interplay of local governance, international law, and humanitarian obligations remains critical as parties involved navigate the future landscape of aid and support for Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.