Jordan condemns “Israeli” Knesset's moves against UNRWA

Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ayman Safadi condemned and rejected “Israeli” Knesset proposals targeting the existence, immunity, and facilities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in the occupied Palestinian territories, calling them a blatant violation of international law.

During a meeting with UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, Safadi emphasized the need for the international community to oppose these proposals and uphold international law, which established UNRWA and outlined its mandate through UN General Assembly resolutions since its founding – said a statement by the Foreign Minsitry.

Safadi warned that allowing “Israel” to target UNRWA is tantamount to permitting further violations of Palestinian rights, depriving them of essential services like food, medicine, and education, especially as “Israel” uses hunger as a weapon during its assault on Gaza, hindering the agency from fulfilling its duties in the occupied territories.

He reiterated that UNRWA's role is irreplaceable, and any attack on the agency is part of “Israel's” broader effort to erase the refugee issue, which must be resolved in accordance with international law and a comprehensive peace agreement that guarantees refugees' right to return and compensation.

Safadi and Lazzarini discussed the necessary legal and political actions to counter this Israeli threat, stressing the need for the international community to provide UNRWA with the political and financial support needed to continue its vital services to Palestinian refugees in Gaza, the West Bank, and other areas of its operation.