In a bold move, Israel has announced it is ending its agreement with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). 🚫✍️
According to a statement from the Israeli Foreign Ministry on Monday, the UNRWA will be replaced by other international organizations. \"Preparations will be made to end the connection with UNRWA and to bolster alternatives to UNRWA,\" the ministry said.
UNRWA has been a lifeline for Palestinians, operating schools in the occupied West Bank and the war-torn Gaza Strip, providing emergency aid during humanitarian crises, and offering healthcare, food assistance, and other social services. 🏥📚🍞
This announcement comes after the Knesset, Israel's parliament, passed new laws banning UNRWA's operations within Israel and prohibiting Israeli authorities from cooperating with it. The legislation will take effect in three months.
The decision has sparked criticism from the UN and the international community, especially as Gaza faces what the UN describes as a \"catastrophic\" humanitarian crisis amid the ongoing conflict. 🌍💔
Israel alleges that some UNRWA staff members were involved in a Hamas-led attack on Israeli communities in October, intensifying tensions in the region.
Established in 1948 following the war that led to the founding of Israel and the displacement of tens of thousands of Palestinians, UNRWA has been crucial in supporting Palestinian refugees for decades.
What's next for those relying on UNRWA's services? Only time will tell, but the world is watching closely. Stay tuned for more updates. 📺👀
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
