What's happened
Israel's relationship with the United Nations has deteriorated sharply, marked by violent attacks on UN personnel and facilities. Recent op-eds question Israel's continued membership in the UN amid accusations of human rights violations and disregard for international law. This situation raises significant concerns about the UN's role and effectiveness.
Why it matters
What the papers say
In a recent op-ed for The Guardian, Mehdi Hasan questioned why Israel remains a UN member despite its aggressive actions against the organization, stating, "How is Israel still allowed to remain a member of the UN?" He highlights the unprecedented attacks on UN personnel, noting that Israel has killed nearly 230 aid workers in Gaza. Similarly, Saul Takahashi, a human rights professor, emphasizes the need for accountability, arguing that Israel's actions undermine the UN's credibility. The Guardian also reported on Israel's foreign minister declaring UN Secretary-General António Guterres persona non grata, further straining relations. This sentiment is echoed across multiple sources, indicating a growing consensus on the need for the UN to reassess its relationship with Israel.
How we got here
Over the past year, Israel has escalated military operations in Gaza and other regions, leading to numerous attacks on UN personnel and facilities. This has prompted discussions about Israel's membership in the UN and its compliance with international law.
Common question
-
What Are the Key Issues in UK-China Relations Today?
As UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy prepares for a pivotal visit to China, the stakes are high for both nations. With tensions surrounding human rights and geopolitical concerns, many are left wondering what this visit means for the future of UK-China relations. Here are some common questions people have about this important diplomatic engagement.
-
What is Straining Israel's Relationship with the UN?
Israel's relationship with the United Nations has become increasingly tense due to recent violent incidents and accusations of human rights violations. This situation raises critical questions about Israel's future within the UN and the implications for international law and order. Below, we explore the key issues affecting this complex relationship.
More on these topics
-
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.
-
The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that aims to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation, and be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.
-
Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
-
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East is a UN agency that supports the relief and human development of Palestinian refugees.
-
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.