Story perspectives

Israel Strips UNRWA of Immunity Amid Hamas Allegations

1/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

On January 8, 2026, Knesset (Israel's parliament) passed legislation removing diplomatic immunity from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestinian refugees.
The law allows action against UNRWA in Israeli courts.
The law prohibits Israeli companies from providing services to UNRWA.
The law permits expropriation of two UNRWA offices in East Jerusalem over UNRWA misconduct linked to Hamas.
UNRWA officials deny the allegations, citing Israel's lack of evidence.

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Story summary

On January 8, 2026, Knesset (Israel's parliament) passed legislation removing diplomatic immunity from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestinian refugees.
The law allows action against UNRWA in Israeli courts.
The law prohibits Israeli companies from providing services to UNRWA.
The law permits expropriation of two UNRWA offices in East Jerusalem over UNRWA misconduct linked to Hamas.
UNRWA officials deny the allegations, citing Israel's lack of evidence.