The European Union has joined other international bodies in criticizing Israel for its attempts to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from operating in Israel and East Jerusalem. A bill proposing the ban and cessation of cooperation with the agency is currently being discussed in the Israeli parliament, the Knesset.
The EU expressed concerns that the bill, if passed, would have severe consequences, including the halt of all UNRWA operations in Israel and East Jerusalem, the disruption of life-saving activities in Gaza, and the hindrance of essential services in the West Bank. Additionally, the bill would revoke UNRWA's diplomatic privileges and immunities.
