Israel bans Unrwa from operating within borders by January 2025

Israel's parliament recently voted to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) within 90 days. This decision has come amid allegations that certain UNRWA staff were involved in recent violent attacks. The legislation also categorizes UNRWA as a terror group, hindering any official interactions with the Israeli government. This ban raises concerns regarding humanitarian assistance, as it may disrupt vital aid to over 1.9 million displaced Palestinians in Gaza, a region already facing severe shortages of essential supplies. Critics, including representatives from the US and the UN, have expressed dismay over this action, calling it an attack on a key provider of humanitarian aid. The urgency of ongoing humanitarian needs has been highlighted by reports revealing over 43,000 civilian deaths in Gaza due to the recent Israeli military operations launched in response to the Hamas attacks. Although Israeli officials have accused UNRWA employees of militant actions, they also claim to prioritize continued humanitarian aid. The vote reflects heightened tensions in the region and poses significant implications for the humanitarian landscape, particularly with the unfolding crisis in Gaza. Stakeholders are now calling for international intervention to ensure essential support remains accessible to those in need despite the legislative changes.