“UNRWA is the backbone of the entire system of providing essential assistance to Palestinian refugees in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. There is no alternative to UNRWA,” the UN Secretary-General stressed. UN Secretary-General on the laws adopted by the Knesset: There is no alternative to UNRWA International Law
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern on Monday over the fact that the Israeli Knesset adopted two laws concerning the activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).
Obstacles to UNRWA’s Work
The UN Secretary-General warned that if these laws are implemented, they could prevent UNRWA “from continuing its important work in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem.” He recalled that UNRWA carries out its activities in accordance with the mandate of the UN General Assembly.
Two Laws
According to the press, the Knesset approved in the second and third readings two bills concerning the activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). One bill effectively terminates the agency’s work in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank and East Jerusalem, while the other prohibits Israeli officials and government agencies from contacting UNRWA.
Devastating Consequences
“UNRWA is the foundation of the entire system of providing essential assistance to Palestinian refugees in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. There is no alternative to UNRWA,” Guterres stressed.
According to him, the application of these laws will have devastating consequences for Palestinian refugees in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
Israel’s Obligations
“This is unacceptable,” the UN Secretary-General said. “I call on Israel to act in accordance with its obligations under the Charter of the United Nations and its other obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and obligations relating to the privileges and immunities of the UN.” National legislation does not relieve Israel of these obligations, the UN chief noted.
According to him, the application of these laws will also have negative consequences for the settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and will undermine security in the entire region.
The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of UNRWA, calling this organization “indispensable.” He said that he brought this issue to the attention of the UN General Assembly. The Secretary-General will continue to closely monitor the situation and inform the GA as it develops.