Full Breakdown
Israeli Knesset Passes Law to Block UNRWA Services
12/29/2025, 11:39:13 PM
Legislative Action Against UNRWA
On Monday, the Israeli Knesset passed a law prohibiting the provision of electricity and water to facilities operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The legislation, which received overwhelming support with a vote of 59-7, mandates that service providers disconnect utilities to UNRWA facilities and restrict communications and financial services to the agency. This law is an amendment to previous legislation passed in October 2024, which curtailed UNRWA's operations in Israeli territory and the Palestinian territories by banning state authorities from engaging with the agency.
The new law specifies that providing utilities constitutes "contact" with UNRWA, thus reinforcing the government's stance against the agency. Additionally, it allows for the seizure of properties leased to UNRWA in Jerusalem without legal proceedings. This move follows a series of actions against UNRWA, including police raids on its offices in East Jerusalem.
Allegations Against UNRWA
Israeli officials, including Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Chairman Boaz Bismuth, have accused UNRWA of being complicit with Hamas, claiming that over 10% of its staff in Gaza have ties to terrorist organizations. Bismuth characterized UNRWA as "an arm of Hamas," alleging that its educational facilities promote anti-Israel sentiments. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have also reported finding a Hamas data center beneath UNRWA's Gaza headquarters and have targeted Hamas operatives hiding in UNRWA schools.
International Response and Legal Opinions
In contrast, the International Court of Justice issued an advisory opinion in October asserting that Israel is legally obligated to allow UNRWA to provide humanitarian aid in Gaza. The court dismissed Israel's claims regarding UNRWA's impartiality, stating there was no evidence of a breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention's requirements. The advisory opinion, although not legally binding, was supported by the UN General Assembly.
Criticism of the Legislation
Critics of the Israeli legislation argue that it undermines humanitarian efforts in Gaza. The advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice has been cited as evidence that Israel's actions may violate international law. Dissenting voices within Israel have expressed concern that the government's approach could exacerbate humanitarian crises in the region.
Verbatim Quotes
- “UNRWA employees were full partners in the brutal massacre they committed against us on October 7. They assisted, murdered and kidnapped. In practice, UNRWA is an arm of Hamas. Terrorists in disguise under the auspices of the UN.” — Boaz Bismuth, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee
- “no obligation to assist UN agencies acting contrary to the Charter’s principles,” — Julia Sebutinde, Vice President of the International Court of Justice
Conclusion
The passage of this law marks a significant escalation in Israel's efforts to limit UNRWA's operations, reflecting ongoing tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As the situation develops, the implications for humanitarian aid in Gaza and the broader geopolitical landscape remain to be seen.
