Israel’s New Laws Targeting UNRWA and Their Potential Impact on Gaza

On Monday, Israeli lawmakers passed two laws that could significantly disrupt the work of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), which provides essential aid in Gaza. These laws prevent the agency from operating on Israeli soil and sever all diplomatic ties between Israel and the agency, creating uncertainties about the future of humanitarian aid distribution. This decision deepens the already strained relationship between Israel and the U.N., raising concerns internationally about the consequences for Palestinians in Gaza, as the humanitarian crisis escalates in the region.

A History of Strained Relations

The relationship between Israel and UNRWA has long been fraught with accusations and suspicions. Israel has frequently criticized UNRWA, alleging that the agency harbors militants within its staff and facilities, an accusation denied by UNRWA’s leadership. Despite a thorough investigation and dismissal of nine employees, UNRWA refuted the claim that it knowingly aids militant groups, emphasizing that it takes strong measures to remove any employees suspected of militant ties. Nonetheless, these allegations have led several international donors to withhold funding, though some of that funding has been restored.

The passing of the new legislation marks what some officials are calling a “dangerous precedent” for international humanitarian work in the region. Philippe Lazzarini, the head of UNRWA, described this legislative move as an ongoing campaign aimed at discrediting the agency. According to Lazzarini, these laws will deepen the suffering of Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, where UNRWA provides vital services to millions of refugees, from healthcare to education.

The Content and Implications of the New Laws

The two laws passed on Monday carry severe implications for UNRWA’s operations:

1. Law One: UNRWA is banned from conducting any activities or providing services on Israeli soil.
2. Law Two: Israel’s diplomatic relationship with UNRWA is formally severed, meaning any official support or cooperation is withdrawn.

These laws, while not immediately effective, are set to go into effect within 60 to 90 days after Israel’s Foreign Ministry formally notifies the U.N. They are projected to undermine UNRWA’s presence, not only in Gaza but also in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and east Jerusalem, where Palestinians rely heavily on the agency’s services. The laws also strip UNRWA of its legal immunities, adding further operational and logistical challenges.

International Concerns and Humanitarian Impact

The international community, including Israel’s allies, has expressed profound concern over the impact these laws may have. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres stated that no viable alternative to UNRWA exists for the support it provides. He emphasized that national legislation should not alter Israel’s international obligations to respect U.N. mandates, expressing a desire for Israel to align its actions with international law and the U.N. Charter.

The United States also voiced its concern through U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, highlighting the agency’s irreplaceable role amid Gaza’s ongoing crisis. With over 1.9 million displaced Palestinians and severe shortages of essentials like food, water, and medical supplies, aid agencies are critical. Without UNRWA, the international community is unsure how these needs can be met.

UNRWA’s Role and Contributions

UNRWA has been a primary source of support for Palestinian refugees since its establishment, offering services in education, health, and basic welfare to millions across Gaza, the West Bank, and east Jerusalem. The agency’s absence would create a void in these communities, where reliance on U.N. aid is high. The law’s supporters argue that UNRWA has compromised its mission by allegedly enabling militant activities, accusations which have damaged its reputation and support among certain international factions.

The head of UNRWA noted that these allegations have strained its credibility and financial stability as donors have temporarily halted or reduced funding. Despite these setbacks, the agency remains committed to its mission, emphasizing that its facilities, including schools and hospitals, are essential for the Palestinian people’s survival and well-being in Gaza.

Rising Conflict and the Toll on Gaza

As the laws threaten UNRWA’s ability to operate, the humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens. Ongoing conflict has claimed over 43,000 lives, according to Gaza officials. The recent death toll is reported to include a significant number of women and children, illustrating the devastating effects of the prolonged hostilities on the civilian population. The Israeli military has conducted raids on hospitals, including a recent one on Kamal Adwan Hospital, alleging that Hamas fighters were using the hospital as a base. Palestinian officials and the World Health Organization condemned these actions, with accusations of civilian endangerment from both sides.

The cumulative impact of these incidents is immense: hospitals in Gaza face shortages of essential supplies, and northern Gaza suffers from restricted humanitarian aid, compounding the suffering of an already vulnerable population. Hunger is now widespread, and displacement has become a grim reality for hundreds of thousands of Gazans.

Diplomatic and Ceasefire Efforts Amid the Crisis

International mediators are currently working to broker a temporary ceasefire, led by countries such as Egypt and Qatar, along with support from U.S. agencies. Egypt recently proposed a two-day ceasefire in exchange for hostages’ release, a proposal that Israel has shown openness to consider. Although talks are ongoing, no formal agreement has been reached, and Hamas has yet to publicly respond to the ceasefire proposal.

The push for a diplomatic resolution is critical. Without cooperation between Israel, international mediators, and humanitarian agencies, a path toward peace and stability in the region remains uncertain.