31/10 • UNRWA

Recent developments in the Israeli Knesset have raised significant concerns in the humanitarian community. A majority vote was cast to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from operating in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT). The UN agency has called this decision “... a dangerous precedent”.

This decision impacts millions of people who rely on UNRWA for essential services, including healthcare, education, and emergency relief. These services are crucial for life-sustaining and community stability in the region. UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a statement, stating that "... the implementation of the laws could have devastating consequences for Palestine refugees in the Occupied Palestinian Territory."

UNRWA’s presence is vital for upholding protections for hospitals, clinics, and UN premises that are explicitly protected under international law.

Since its establishment in 1949, UNRWA has been instrumental in providing essential services to Palestine refugees, supporting the needs of over 5.9 million people today. The agency’s work goes beyond immediate relief, enabling other humanitarian actors,  to operate effectively in conflict-affected areas. UNRWA serves as the primary means of delivering essential assistance to Palestine refugees in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, leaving no viable alternative.

This includes provision of support, including fuel and medical supplies, to Anglican facilities like Al Ahli Arab Hospital. Operated by the Anglican Diocese of Jerusalem, Al Ahli has become a critical healthcare provider in northern Gaza, treating thousands under severe shortages of power, medicine, and equipment.

UNRWA’s infrastructure and coordination efforts facilitate the reach of numerous NGOs and partners to communities in need. According to Jan Egeland, Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council, “... UNRWA is not only providing the bulk of the relief to long suffering Palestinian civilians in Gaza and West Bank, they also provide logistics, the warehouses, the schools, the health posts for the rest of us... By banning the relief on UNRWA, they also sabotage the other relief work...”

UNRWA’s work embodies the core humanitarian principles of neutrality, humanity, impartiality and independence. By supporting healthcare, education, and social services, UNRWA not only saves lives but also contributes to the peace-building and community stability that many organisations strive to achieve.

In these uncertain times, we pray for peace and wise decision-making. UNRWA’s role in sustaining the lives and dignity of millions must be preserved for the communities that continue to rely on the lifelines it provides. As we reflect on this issue, we must be reminded of our own commitment to uphold compassion and justice, advocating for the vulnerable with respect and humility.