The Israeli government has directed the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to halt its operations in the country, effective immediately. This decision, effective as of Jan. 30, 2025, comes after years of mounting allegations against the agency, including claims of ties to the terrorist group Hamas.
Israel's move signifies the culmination of a prolonged effort to distance itself from UNRWA, which it accuses of undermining national security. Legislation passed in October 2024 explicitly prohibits UNRWA from operating within Israel's sovereign territory and bans any communication or collaboration between Israeli officials and UNRWA representatives.
