UNRWA Maintains Support Operations in Gaza and West Bank Amidst Israeli Restrictions: UN
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Synopsis
The United Nations relief agency, UNRWA, is steadfastly continuing its operations in Gaza and the West Bank despite a new Israeli ban. This comes after the Israeli Parliament enacted laws to prohibit the agency's activities. UNRWA assures its commitment to providing essential assistance to Palestinian refugees amidst escalating tensions.
Key Takeaways
- UNRWA remains operational despite Israeli legislation.
- Israeli Parliament passed laws restricting UNRWA's activities.
- Clinics in occupied West Bank remain open.
- UNRWA continues to provide health, education, and food assistance.
- Over 3,200 families displaced from Jenin refugee camp.
United Nations, Jan 31 (NationPress) The United Nations relief organization for Palestinian refugees, referred to as UNRWA, is persisting with its operations despite a newly imposed Israeli ban, stated a spokesperson from the UN.
In October 2024, the Israeli Parliament enacted two laws to prevent UNRWA from functioning within the nation and to prohibit any interactions between Israeli officials and the agency. These laws came into effect on Thursday.
"UNRWA confirms its dedication to remaining operational and providing assistance," remarked Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, during the regular briefing on Thursday.
Dujarric mentioned that he had communicated with UNRWA representatives who indicated that while the headquarters in East Jerusalem was largely vacant except for security personnel, UNRWA staff were either deployed in the field, such as at clinics, or working remotely, as reported by Xinhua.
"Clinics throughout the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, remain operational," he noted.
Dujarric informed journalists that the agency continues to provide health, education, and food assistance in the Gaza Strip.
When queried about any guidance for UNRWA staff considering the Israeli legislation, the spokesperson responded, "The instruction is for UNRWA to persist in its efforts until it is no longer feasible to do so."
More than 3,200 families have been displaced from the Jenin refugee camp since December 2024, according to Dujarric.
Israel announced on Wednesday that it would cut all connections with UNRWA starting Thursday, alleging that the agency employs Hamas operatives and facilitates "terrorist activities" in Gaza.
"UNRWA is infiltrated with Hamas," stated Oren Marmorstein, spokesperson for the Israeli Foreign Ministry, on the social media platform X.
"Effective January 30, Israel will halt all interactions with UNRWA as per Israeli law," he added.
Since its establishment in 1950, UNRWA has been providing support to Palestinian refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
The Israeli prohibition, which jeopardizes vital aid, education, and healthcare for millions of Palestinians, has faced backlash from global leaders and humanitarian organizations. The United Nations has consistently cautioned about the severe repercussions.
The surge of violence in the West Bank followed the implementation of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement on January 19 in Gaza, after a prolonged period of conflict that resulted in over 47,000 casualties and devastated the enclave.
Since the onset of Israel's military actions in October 2023, at least 890 Palestinians have lost their lives due to assaults by Israeli forces and settlers.
