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Israel Cuts Ties With UNRWA, Threatening Essential Services in West Bank

Israel's new law ending cooperation with UNRWA, effective January 2024, threatens to cut essential services for 45,000 Palestinian refugee students and countless others in the occupied West Bank, raising serious humanitarian concerns.

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United States

UnrwaHamasLikud PartyJohns Hopkins University

Ayesha RascoeScott NeumanRana NabernNoradin SabahiBoaz BismuthPaul SpiegelItaf ShahadaHiam HawarenMajida Nasser

What are the underlying causes of Israel's decision to cut ties with UNRWA, and what are the potential geopolitical implications of this move?: The Israeli government's justification for ending cooperation with UNRWA centers on accusations of Hamas ties among UNRWA staff, although evidence remains undisclosed. This decision follows broader trends of reduced international support for UNRWA and increased tensions in the region, potentially exacerbating existing humanitarian challenges.
What immediate consequences will result from Israel ending its cooperation with UNRWA in the West Bank and how many people will be directly affected?: Israel's new law severing ties with UNRWA, effective January 2024, threatens to halt aid to 45,000 Palestinian refugee students and numerous others reliant on the agency for healthcare and vocational training in the West Bank. This action raises concerns about the potential for widespread disruption to essential services and increased humanitarian needs.
What alternative strategies could mitigate the negative consequences of UNRWA's potential closure, and what are the long-term prospects for humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in the West Bank?: The cessation of UNRWA services could trigger a humanitarian crisis in the West Bank, affecting not only Palestinian refugees but also vulnerable non-refugees who depend on the agency's healthcare services. Without a clear alternative plan, the absence of UNRWA's extensive infrastructure and expertise could severely impact healthcare access and economic opportunities for thousands.

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