Israeli Knesset Moves to Cut Essential Services to UNRWA

On December 16, 2025, the Israeli Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Security Committee approved a bill aimed at cutting water and electricity supplies to the offices of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). This legislative move is intended to halt UNRWA’s operations and explicitly prohibits the provision of essential services to properties registered under the agency’s name. The bill is now set for final readings before it can be enacted into law. This decision follows a recent incident where Israeli forces stormed UNRWA’s headquarters in occupied East Jerusalem, seizing its contents.

Knesset committee approves referral of bill to cut water and electricity from UNRWA offices for voteMiddle East Monitor

Hamas condemned the Knesset's approval, labeling it a "serious escalation" and part of a "systematic criminal campaign" against UNRWA. In their statement, Hamas urged the international community and the United Nations to intervene, emphasizing the need to protect UNRWA's humanitarian mission, especially in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They called for support to ensure that UNRWA can continue its operations to assist Palestinian refugees.

Middle East MonitorKnesset committee approves referral of bill to cut water and electricity from UNRWA offices for vote

The proposed legislation reflects ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestinian entities, particularly regarding humanitarian aid and services. The potential enactment of this bill could significantly impact the delivery of essential services to Palestinian refugees, exacerbating the humanitarian situation in the region. UNRWA has been a critical provider of services, including education and healthcare, to millions of Palestinian refugees, and any disruption to its operations could lead to further humanitarian challenges.

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The Israeli government has not issued a detailed response regarding the implications of the bill on UNRWA’s operations. However, the Knesset's actions suggest a prioritization of national security concerns over humanitarian considerations. Hamas's statement reflects a broader concern among Palestinian groups about the diminishing support for UNRWA and the potential consequences for Palestinian refugees.

Middle East MonitorKnesset committee approves referral of bill to cut water and electricity from UNRWA offices for vote

While the Knesset's approval of the bill is confirmed, there are varying perspectives on the implications of this action. Critics argue that cutting essential services could lead to a humanitarian disaster, while supporters within the Knesset may view it as a necessary measure to address security concerns. There is also a lack of detailed information on how this legislation will be implemented and its potential impact on the ground.

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• “Hamas described on Tuesday evening the approval by the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee of a plan to ban essential services to UNRWA offices as a “serious escalation”.” — Hamas Statement

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This legislative development marks a significant moment in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with potential repercussions for humanitarian efforts in the region.

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