International Outcry as Israel Bans UN Aid Agency from Gaza Operations

• Oct 29, 2024

Israel is facing growing international criticism after its parliament approved a bill that bans the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating in Israel and annexed east Jerusalem. The law comes despite objections from the United States and warnings from the UN Security Council. The measure restricts humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, which is currently experiencing a severe crisis.

Dr. Yuli Edelstein, a sponsor of the bill, stated in parliament that there is a "deep connection between the terrorist organization Hamas and UNRWA," insisting that Israel cannot tolerate such ties. This bill also prohibits Israeli officials from working with UNRWA and its staff, significantly impacting the agency’s ability to provide vital aid.

UNRWA has been essential in delivering humanitarian assistance, education, and healthcare to Palestinians for over 70 years. Following the law's passage, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that it could have "devastating consequences," potentially halting UNRWA's critical work in the region. Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA's chief, described the vote as a "dangerous precedent."

The ban comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon, where violence has escalated sharply in recent weeks. On October 7, 2023, Palestinian militants captured 251 hostages during an attack, and as of now, 97 remain in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is open to discussions about a possible ceasefire and the release of hostages. However, he later claimed he had not received a proposal from Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi for a temporary truce.

The situation in Lebanon has also deteriorated, with Israeli airstrikes killing at least 60 people in Baalbek on October 29. These raids, described by local officials as the most violent since the start of the current conflict, reflect the rising tensions fueled by Hezbollah's support for Hamas. Following the airstrikes, Hezbollah launched retaliatory attacks against Israeli troops and fired rockets at an Israeli naval base.

In Gaza, fresh Israeli strikes continued to hit areas like the Jabalia refugee camp, leading to numerous casualties. The Israeli military is conducting an extensive ground and air assault aimed at dismantling Hamas's capabilities. Israeli officials suggest that operations may take weeks, leaving many residents trapped without access to essential resources like food and water.

The situation remains dire, with reports indicating that at least 43,020 Palestinians have died in Gaza since the conflict escalated, the majority of whom are civilians. The international community is calling for urgent action to address the humanitarian crisis, with leaders emphasizing the need for a ceasefire and the resumption of humanitarian aid.