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.
Israel's efforts to dismantle UNRWA stem from accusations that 12 of the agency's staff members were involved in a terrorist attack that occurred on October 7, 2023. Following these allegations, 16 countries initially suspended their funding to UNRWA, although most have since resumed their support.
A subsequent UN investigation identified nine former UNRWA employees who were potentially linked to the October 7 attacks. These individuals are no longer associated with the agency, which employs around 14,000 staff members in Gaza.
Due to security concerns, UNRWA was compelled to close its headquarters in East Jerusalem after facing attacks from Israeli protesters. Recent reports indicate that the Israeli Land Authority plans to confiscate the property and repurpose it for a housing development.
