Israel’s parliament has passed a law banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from operating in the country, a move that has raised concerns among Israel’s Western allies regarding the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. Israeli officials cited the involvement of some UNRWA staff in the October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel and allegations of staff affiliations with Hamas and other militant groups. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that those UNRWA workers involved in terrorist activities should be held accountable.
Philippe Lazzarini, the head of UNRWA, criticized the decision, stating that it contradicts the U.N. charter and international law, and he claimed it reflects an ongoing effort to delegitimize UNRWA’s humanitarian role.
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On the same day, Israeli military operations intensified in northern Gaza, with reports of around 100,000 civilians trapped and lacking essential supplies. The Israeli military stated they had captured approximately 100 suspected militants in a raid on a hospital in Jabalia, although this was denied by Hamas and medical officials.
The violence has escalated, with Israeli airstrikes reportedly killing at least 19 people in Gaza, and the Palestinian Civil Emergency Service claiming significant disruption to their operations due to the ongoing Israeli assault.
Amidst these developments, ceasefire talks facilitated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar resumed, with Egypt proposing a temporary truce for the exchange of hostages and prisoners. However, both Israel and Hamas remain committed to their military objectives, with Israel insisting on the eradication of Hamas.
The conflict has also spread to Lebanon, where Israeli strikes have resulted in casualties, leading to an evacuation order for parts of Tyre. The situation in northern Gaza remains dire, with hospitals struggling to operate and civilians facing significant hardship as the Israeli military continues its offensive. The death toll in Gaza from the ongoing conflict has reached over 43,000, according to local health officials.
