Israel’s Knesset Moves to Limit UNRWA Activities Amid Controversy
On October 6, the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee in Israel approved two legislative proposals to restrict the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from operating within Israel. This decision is part of ongoing discussions about UNRWA’s role. Committee Chairman MK Yuli Edelstein declared, “UNRWA is out!”
The first proposal, introduced by MK Boaz Bismuth and MK Sharren Haskel, prohibits UNRWA from any activities within Israel. The second proposal, consolidating initiatives from various lawmakers, states that the invitation for UNRWA to operate in Israel will expire on October 7, 2024, or upon final law approval. It also bans state authorities from engaging with UNRWA.
Extensive discussions, both public and classified, were held, involving testimonies from social organizations and families affected by UNRWA-associated individuals. The proposals were passed unanimously, with the committee examining their implications across diplomatic, legal, security, and economic domains.
Chairman Edelstein criticized UNRWA’s actions during a recent conflict, noting that some hostages were held by UNRWA workers. The scrutiny of UNRWA increased after allegations of staff involvement in October 7 attacks, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and 252 abductions. Israel demands UNRWA’s authority in Gaza be revoked, suggesting humanitarian aid bypass the agency.
The UN recently fired nine UNRWA staff for involvement in the attacks, but Israel claims the investigation overlooked about 100 other personnel. Former Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan criticized the UN’s investigation as inadequate.
UNRWA faces accusations of facilitating Hamas operations, with Israeli forces finding a Hamas complex under its Gaza City headquarters. Over 100 survivors of the attacks have filed a $1 billion lawsuit against UNRWA, alleging it aided Hamas.
The proposals will take effect 90 days after final approval, with regular reporting mandated to oversee implementation. Israeli officials advocate for restructuring refugee aid, suggesting Palestinian refugees fall under the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
Doubts Revealed
Knesset -: The Knesset is the name of Israel’s parliament, where laws are made and important decisions are discussed and voted on.
UNRWA -: UNRWA stands for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency. It helps Palestinian refugees by providing services like education and healthcare.
Gaza -: Gaza is a small region on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by Israel and Egypt. It is home to many Palestinians and has been a place of conflict.
October 7 attacks -: This refers to a specific event or series of events that happened on October 7, which led to controversy and actions by Israel against UNRWA.
National Security Headquarters -: This is a part of the government in Israel that deals with the country’s safety and security, making sure that the nation is protected from threats.
