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Israel-UNRWA Dispute: Humanitarian Crisis Looms
Israel's decision to cut ties with UNRWA sparks a dispute over responsibility for aid in Gaza and the West Bank.
English
Canada
PoliticsInternational RelationsMiddle EastIsraelConflictHumanitarian AidRefugees And Migration
UnrwaUnited NationsHamasIsrael
Antonio GuterresDanny DanonBenjamin NetanyahuPhilippe LazzariniRiyad Mansour
- What are the differing perspectives on UNRWA's role and future?
- Both the UN and Palestinians view UNRWA as indispensable, while Israel seeks to dismantle it. This disagreement highlights the deep conflict between Israel and Palestine, with significant humanitarian implications.
- What are the accusations against UNRWA, and how has the UN responded?
- Israel accuses UNRWA of anti-Israeli incitement and alleges some staff were involved in the October 2023 Hamas attacks. The UN has acknowledged some staff may have been involved, taking disciplinary actions.
- What is the significance of UNRWA's operations in Gaza and the West Bank?
- UNRWA provides crucial aid, health, and education services to millions of Palestinians. Its potential collapse would have devastating consequences, leaving Palestinians without essential services and creating a humanitarian crisis.
- What action did Israel take concerning UNRWA, and what was the UN's response?
- Israel ended a 1967 cooperation agreement with UNRWA, impacting the agency's operations in Gaza and the West Bank. The UN stated it has no responsibility to replace UNRWA, asserting it is Israel's obligation as the occupying power.
- What are Israel's obligations under international law regarding the occupied territories?
- The UN views Gaza and the West Bank as occupied territories, obligating Israel under international law to support relief programs and ensure necessities like food and healthcare. Israel disputes this, aiming to dismantle UNRWA.