UNWRA is feeding Gaza. If implemented this is a death sentence for strip.
In its sitting on Monday, the Knesset Plenum approved in second and third readings the Bill for Stopping the Activity of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), 2024, sponsored by MKs Boaz Bismuth (Likud), Sharren Haskel (New Hope - The United Right), Hanoch Milwidsky (Likud) and a group of MKs. In the vote, 92 MKs supported the bill, while 10 MKs voted against it.
The bill proposes to prohibit UNRWA from operating any mission, providing any service or conducting any activity, either directly or indirectly, within Israel's sovereign territory.
The United Nations agency "United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees" (UNRWA) is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions from UN Member States. UNRWA also receives some funding from the Regular Budget of the United Nations, which is used mostly for international staffing costs.
The role of UNWRA is essential
Following the 1948 War, UNRWA was established by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 302 (IV) of 8 December 1949 to carry out direct relief and works programmes for Palestine refugees. The Agency began operations on 1 May 1950.
In the absence of a solution to the Palestine refugee problem, the General Assembly has repeatedly renewed UNRWA's mandate, most recently extending it until 30 June 2026.
The agency serves over 5.6 million registered Palestinian refugees, providing various services such as education, health care, food aid, and vocational training. Education is a major focus, with a substantial portion of the budget allocated to schools, which have achieved notable gender equality milestones. However, overcrowded classrooms and disruptions due to conflict remain significant issues.
UNRWA also addresses the needs of vulnerable families, providing assistance to those without male breadwinners, and it operates health services through a network of clinics and hospitals, focusing on comprehensive care and preventive measures. Additionally, it has a Microfinance Department aimed at fostering economic development and alleviating poverty within refugee communities.
The agency's role extends to emergency operations in response to ongoing conflicts, such as those in Syria and Lebanon, where it has undertaken substantial reconstruction projects. UNRWA's efforts have been acknowledged and praised by various international figures and organizations, reinforcing its importance in addressing the humanitarian needs of Palestinian refugees. Despite challenges and criticisms, including concerns over politicization, UNRWA has received support from entities like the U.S. State Department for its vital work in the region.