Israeli Parliament Moves to Shut Down UNRWA

On October 28, 2024, the Israeli parliament debated new legislation aimed at prohibiting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from operating in Gaza and the West Bank. This decision poses a dire threat, potentially depriving 2.4 million Palestinians of essential education and healthcare services during a time of severe humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by ongoing conflicts since October 2023. The intensification of Israeli military operations has resulted in approximately 43,000 Palestinian deaths, including many children, drawing international condemnation for the escalating violence. Notably, an airstrike on October 29 resulted in the deaths of 93 Palestinians in a single assault. Such incidents underscore the deteriorating humanitarian situation, where many residents lack food and medical care. Despite the United States emphasizing the urgent need to improve humanitarian conditions, the crisis continues to deepen due to the UNRWA prohibition and border closures. Numerous countries have condemned this ban, viewing it as collective punishment against the civilian population.