'Israeli' settlers storm UNRWA building in Jerusalem.
'Israel' cuts utilities to UNRWA offices in Jerusalem
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- The 'Israeli' Knesset approves a final law cutting electricity and water to UNRWA offices in occupied East Jerusalem.
- The decision threatens services for more than 110,000 Palestinian refugees and raises serious international law concerns.
The 'Israeli' Knesset has given final approval to a law ordering the immediate cutoff of electricity and water to offices of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), in East Jerusalem.
The Knesset passed the bill in its second and third readings with 59 lawmakers voting in favor and seven against, out of a total of 120 members.
Under Knesset rules, legislation requires three readings to become binding law, according to 'Israeli' Army Radio.
Read more: 'Israel's' "Greater Jerusalem" engulfs heart of the West Bank
Final approval after committee review
The bill was initially approved in November before being referred to the 'Israeli' Knesset Foreign Affairs and Security Committee for further preparation ahead of the final vote. With its passage completed, the law enters into force immediately.
During the voting session, 'Israeli' Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen attempted to justify the move, claiming that UNRWA serves as a breeding ground for incitement and killing. He argued that the agency should not be allowed to continue operating.
Read more: 'Israel' blocks at least 6,000 Gaza aid trucks: UNRWA
Threat to refugee services
UNRWA provides essential services to more than 110,000 Palestinian refugees in Jerusalem. The agency operates two refugee camps, Shuafat and Qalandiya, and manages several institutions, including the Indian Hospice Clinic near Herod’s Gate, as well as boys’ and girls’ schools in Jerusalem, Sur Baher, and the two camps.
Humanitarian organizations warn that cutting electricity and water to UNRWA offices could severely disrupt health care, education, and social services relied upon by refugee communities.
The decision is part of broader 'Israeli' measures targeting UNRWA’s presence and operations.
UNRWA was created by UN General Assembly Resolution 302 in 1949 in response to the Palestinian refugee crisis, reflecting an international commitment following the failure to implement UN Security Council Resolution 194, which guarantees the right of return for Palestinian refugees.
