What's happened
On October 28, 2024, Israel's Knesset passed two laws restricting the operations of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Israel and the Palestinian territories. The legislation, which takes effect in 90 days, has drawn international condemnation and raises concerns about worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, the new laws could 'hobble UNRWA’s work in Gaza,' where the agency has been crucial for coordinating humanitarian aid. Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA's head, described the legislation as 'unprecedented' and warned it would deepen Palestinian suffering. Meanwhile, Axios reported that the U.S. and other Western nations urged Israel to halt the legislation, emphasizing that it could lead to a humanitarian crisis. The passage of these laws has raised alarms about the future of humanitarian efforts in the region, with critics arguing that they violate international law and Israel's obligations under it.
How we got here
The laws come amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, where UNRWA has been a critical provider of humanitarian aid. Israel has long criticized the agency, alleging ties to Hamas, particularly following the October 7 attacks that escalated the conflict.
Common question
-
What Does DePape's Life Sentence Mean for Political Violence in the US?
David DePape's recent sentencing to life in prison without parole has raised significant questions about the implications for political violence in the United States. As the nation grapples with increasing incidents of politically motivated attacks, understanding the impact of this case is crucial. Below, we explore common questions surrounding this topic.
More on these topics
-
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.
-
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.
-
Gaza may refer to:
-
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.
-
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.
-
The Knesset is the unicameral national legislature of Israel. As the legislative branch of the Israeli government, the Knesset passes all laws, elects the President and Prime Minister, approves the cabinet, and supervises the work of the government.