UN chief condemns Israeli amendments targeting UNRWA operations

UN Chief Condemns Israeli Amendments Targeting UNRWA Operations A Matter of Principle and International Law

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a statement condemning recent amendments adopted by Israel's Knesset (parliament) aimed at ceasing the operations of the UN agency assisting Palestinian refugees, known as UNRWA. These measures must be immediately repealed to comply with international law and protect UNRWA's vital role in serving Palestinians in Gaza and elsewhere in the region.

Israel has obligations under the United Nations Charter and Convention on Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations that it must uphold regarding UNRWA. The agency plays an indispensable part in this conflict, contributing to implementing Security Council resolution 2803 (2025) and ending the Gaza conflict.

Secretary-General Guterres expressed concern about the recent amendments passed by the Israeli Knesset, which he said could undermine the ability of UNRWA to fulfill its mandate effectively. He emphasized that any limitations placed on UNRWA must be in compliance with international law and relevant agreements, including those related to humanitarian assistance provision.

This move is seen as a further escalation of tensions between Israel and Palestinians, particularly in Gaza where humanitarian conditions have deteriorated due to the ongoing conflict and blockade. UNRWA provides essential services such as education, healthcare, and relief support to millions of Palestinian refugees across Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and the West Bank including East Jerusalem.

The Secretary-General urged all parties involved to ensure full respect for their obligations under international law, including those related to humanitarian assistance provision. He called on them to take steps towards de-escalating tensions and resolving the conflict through peaceful means that comply with applicable laws and principles governing international relations.

This is a matter of principle, not just about politics or diplomacy but rather upholding basic human rights for millions living under dire circumstances because of this prolonged conflict situation in Israel/Palestine territory. We cannot allow essential services provided by UNRWA to be hindered when they play such a crucial role in helping those most vulnerable amongst us who need support the most right now more than ever before.

The Secretary-General urged all parties involved to ensure full respect for their obligations under international law, including those related to humanitarian assistance provision. He called on them to take steps towards de-escalating tensions and resolving the conflict through peaceful means that comply with applicable laws and principles governing international relations.

This is a matter of principle, not just about politics or diplomacy but rather upholding basic human rights for millions living under dire circumstances because of this prolonged conflict situation in Israel/Palestine territory. We cannot allow essential services provided by UNRWA to be hindered when they play such a crucial role in helping those most vulnerable amongst us who need support the most right now more than ever before.

In conclusion, Secretary-General Guterres emphasized that any limitations placed on UNRWA must comply with international law and relevant agreements. He called for urgent action by all parties involved to protect the rights of Palestinian refugees and ensure that essential services continue uninterrupted.

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