Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper reported that Katz today ordered the Director-General of his ministry, Jacob Blitstein, to inform the United Nations of the cancellation of the agreement, after the Knesset last week approved a law requiring the end of UNRWA’s activities in Israel.
Israel claims that some UNRWA employees are suspected of participating in the attack on October 7, 2023, and the United Nations rejects these accusations, stressing that the agency is neutral and focuses exclusively on supporting refugees.
Katz said: “UNRWA, the organization whose employees participated in the October 7 massacre, and many of whose employees are activists in the Palestinian faction movement, is part of the problem in the Gaza Strip and not part of the solution.”
According to the newspaper, there is still no alternative to UNRWA in Gaza, as the vast majority of humanitarian aid is delivered through other organizations, while only 13% of it is delivered through UNRWA.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said on Sunday that the focus should be on reaching an agreement to end the conflict in the Gaza Strip, “instead of focusing on banning the agency or finding alternatives to it.”
Lazzarini added, in a statement published on his account on the X platform, that “dismantling UNRWA in the absence of a viable alternative will deprive Palestinian children of education.”
Last Monday evening, the Israeli Knesset approved a ban on the activity of UNRWA in the Palestinian territories, in a move condemned by European and Western countries and international organizations.
According to the law, “UNRWA’s activity in East Jerusalem shall be suspended, and its powers shall be transferred to the responsibility and control of Israel.”
Under it, the 1967 agreement that allowed UNRWA to operate in Israel is also cancelled, and thus the agency’s activities in Israel and the Palestinian territories cease, and any contact between Israeli officials and its employees is prohibited.
Source: Yedioth Ahronoth + RT
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**Interview with Dr. Miriam Cohen, Middle Eastern Affairs Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Cohen. Israel has recently announced the cancellation of its longstanding agreement with the UNRWA. Can you provide some context on this decision?
**Dr. Cohen:** Absolutely. This agreement dates back to 1967 and has governed UNRWA’s operations regarding Palestinian refugees. However, recent events, particularly the devastating attack on October 7, have significantly shifted the dynamics. Israel’s government claims that certain UNRWA employees may have been involved in that assault, which has raised serious concerns about the agency’s operations within Israel.
**Interviewer:** That’s a significant accusation. What are the potential implications of Israel’s cancellation of the agreement for the Palestinian refugees who rely on UNRWA services?
**Dr. Cohen:** The cancellation could severely impact millions of Palestinian refugees who depend on UNRWA for essential services such as education, healthcare, and social support. If Israel follows through with this decision, we could see a rapid decline in these services, leading to increased hardship for an already vulnerable population.
**Interviewer:** The Knesset recently approved a law to end UNRWA’s activities in Israel. What prompted the legislative decision, and what does it entail?
**Dr. Cohen:** The law reflects the current Israeli government’s stance that UNRWA perpetuates the refugee crisis rather than resolving it. The government contends that ending UNRWA’s activities will compel Palestinian leaders to engage more constructively in negotiations. However, critics argue that this approach could further entrench the humanitarian crisis rather than address the root causes effectively.
**Interviewer:** What do you think the international community’s response will be to Israel’s actions regarding UNRWA?
**Dr. Cohen:** The international community, particularly organizations that advocate for human rights and humanitarian aid, will likely express concern. Many countries view UNRWA as a crucial agency for maintaining stability in the region. While some nations may support Israel’s actions, others will push for a resolution that continues to provide support for Palestinian refugees, emphasizing the need for humanitarian assistance amidst political conflict.
**Interviewer:** And Dr. Cohen, how do you think this situation could evolve in the coming months?
**Dr. Cohen:** This situation is quite fluid. If tensions escalate, we could see increased humanitarian crises within Palestinian territories. Conversely, if diplomatic efforts are made to address the concerns surrounding UNRWA, there may be room for negotiation. Much will depend on the evolving political landscape in Israel and the broader Middle East, as well as international diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilizing the region.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Cohen, for sharing your insights on this complex issue.
**Dr. Cohen:** Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we keep discussing these developments as they unfold.
