Israel's ban on operations by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) took effect on January 30, 2025, prompting widespread concern over its impacts on humanitarian aid across the occupied Palestinian territories, particularly Gaza. Following the law's adoption, UNRWA officials declared their intention to continue providing necessary services, with Juliette Touma, the agency's director of communications, emphasizing, "We continue to provide services. UNRWA continues to be the backbone of the international humanitarian response. We continue to have international personnel in Gaza, and we continue to bring in trucks of basic supplies." This commitment to serve those affected by the conflict, even amid challenges, highlights UNRWA's pivotal role in delivering aid to millions reliant on its support.
The Israeli legislation, adopted by the Knesset last October, prohibits UNRWA from operating on Israeli land, which includes East Jerusalem, and forbids any contact with Israeli authorities. This move has drawn considerable diplomatic backlash, with nations like Britain, France, and Germany expressing grave concern. A joint statement from their foreign ministers warned of the significant impact this ban could have, stating, "No other entity or UN agency currently has the capacity or infrastructure to replace UNRWA's mandate and experience." The emphasis here indicates the urgency and need for international cooperation to maintain aid operations.
Despite the ban, UN agencies have been determined to push forward with their missions. The World Food Programme has managed to establish additional food distribution points amid the challenging conditions. Richard Peeperkorn, WHO representative for the occupied Palestinian territory, highlighted the existing human needs, estimating up to 14,000 individuals requiring urgent medical evacuation out of Gaza, underscoring the dire humanitarian crisis stemming from the prolonged conflict.
The situation is exacerbated by the continued instability following the ceasefire with Hamas, which allowed humanitarian aid to flow more freely. The ceasefire has facilitated the entry of significant food supplies, with reports indicating over 32,000 tons delivered since the ceasefire took effect on January 19. Still, UNRWA's operations are considered central to stabilizing the situation; any disruption could jeopardize existing ceasefire agreements. According to Touma, "If UNRWA is not allowed to continue to bring and distribute supplies, then the fate of this very fragile ceasefire is going to be at risk and is going to be jeopardy."
The realities on the ground reveal stark challenges faced by both UNRWA and the Palestinian populace. The majority of UNRWA staff are Palestinian, who have endured hostility and disruption due to right-wing protests and attacks, including instances of stone-throwing and checkpoints inconveniences. Amid these struggles, agency officials have reported over 270 staff killed during the conflict, raising calls for investigations.
The international community has been vocal about the need for Israel to maintain productive relations with UNRWA to promote stability. A UN spokesman reiterated the organization's commitment on behalf of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, asking for the order to be rescinded, reinforcing the point of view held by many nations: UNRWA's presence is not only necessary but irreplaceable.
The impact of Israel's actions may reach far beyond immediate humanitarian concerns. Historically, UNRWA has provided aid since 1949, assisting around 5.9 million registered Palestinian refugees—many descendants of those displaced during Israel’s wars for independence and territory. Eliminations of this agency’s work, as some fear, might mark dire implications for Palestinian rights and the broader peace process.
Many Palestinian citizens feel anxious about the uncertain future, particularly as humanitarian needs soar. The psychological toll the long-standing conflict has taken on children is significant, with UNICEF emphasizing the need for mental health support alongside physical aid. Without UNRWA, individuals fear they may lose the basic access to health care, education, and food support they have come to rely on.
The arguments framing the agency as part of the issue—claims of infiltration by Hamas and associations with terrorism—are passionately debated. Yet investigations have not conclusively supported these accusations. Global observers stress the importance of humanitarian support devoid of political objectives, and acts toward fostering civilian welfare above all.
The international response illuminates the potential for heightened unrest if this humanitarian lifeline is severed. Calls from Western governments urge Israel to cooperate with UN and humanitarian agencies, advocating for consistency of operations during this fragile period. The road to peace requires not only halting violence but ensuring the restoration of humanitarian channels for those most affected by these cycles of conflict.
Israel's handling of UNRWA's situation will play a pivotal role not only for immediate aid requirements but also for future diplomatic relations and peace negotiations surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The stakes have never been higher—without the agency’s integral support, millions may face deepening crises with little hope of recovery. Only time will tell how the international community will respond to protect the fragile peace and enable the delivery of fundamental humanitarian needs.