What's happened
On October 29, 2024, Israel's Knesset passed legislation banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within its territory. This decision, which has drawn international condemnation, threatens humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza and the West Bank amid ongoing conflict.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, the Knesset's decision to ban UNRWA was described as a 'historic law' by Knesset member Dan Illouz, who argued it is crucial in the fight against terrorism. Conversely, Politico reported that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed 'grave concern' over the legislation, stating it jeopardizes the international humanitarian response in Gaza. Meanwhile, SBS highlighted Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong's condemnation of the ban, emphasizing the life-saving work UNRWA provides and urging Israel to comply with international humanitarian obligations. This divergence in perspectives illustrates the complex international response to Israel's legislative actions.
How we got here
The legislation follows years of criticism of UNRWA by Israeli officials, particularly after accusations of the agency's ties to Hamas. The agency has provided essential services to Palestinian refugees since its establishment in 1949.
More on these topics
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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Gaza may refer to:
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.