TilAviv(The COW News Digital)Israel has officially revoked the diplomatic immunity granted to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), a move that has sparked strong international concern and criticism. The decision was approved by the Israeli parliament on Tuesday, marking a significant escalation in Israel’s long-running dispute with the UN agency.
According to international news agencies, the newly passed legislation removes UNRWA’s legal protections inside Israel, allowing Israeli courts to initiate legal proceedings against the agency. The law also authorizes Israeli authorities to seize two UNRWA offices located in occupied East Jerusalem, further restricting the agency’s operations in the area.
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In addition to ending diplomatic immunity, the legislation bars Israeli companies from providing essential services to UNRWA facilities, including water, electricity, and financial services. Analysts say the move could severely disrupt humanitarian operations that millions of Palestinian refugees rely on across the region.
Israel had already imposed restrictions on UNRWA last year, accusing the agency of political bias and alleging links between some of its staff and militant groups. Israeli officials argue that UNRWA’s mandate perpetuates the Palestinian refugee issue rather than resolving it, a claim the agency has repeatedly denied.
UNRWA has strongly condemned the Israeli decision, calling it an attempt to undermine and discredit the organization. In a statement, the agency said it plays a vital humanitarian role by providing education, healthcare, food assistance, and social services to millions of Palestinian refugees across Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria.
The agency warned that stripping it of legal protections could have serious consequences for vulnerable populations, particularly at a time when humanitarian needs in Gaza and other Palestinian areas are at critical levels. UN officials have also expressed concern that the move could violate Israel’s obligations under international law, given UNRWA’s status as a United Nations body.
Human rights organizations and diplomatic observers say the decision could further strain Israel’s relations with the United Nations and its international partners. Several countries have emphasized that UNRWA remains a key pillar of humanitarian assistance in the Middle East, especially amid ongoing conflict and displacement.
The development comes as the region continues to face heightened tensions, with the humanitarian situation in Gaza worsening and diplomatic efforts struggling to gain momentum. Observers warn that weakening UNRWA’s ability to operate may deepen the humanitarian crisis and increase instability.
As international reaction continues to unfold, the move is expected to be raised in upcoming UN forums, with calls growing for diplomatic intervention to protect humanitarian operations serving Palestinian refugees.
