Arab Nations Support UN Resolution on UNRWA
Arab countries have expressed strong support for a recent United Nations General Assembly resolution that calls on the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to examine Israel's ban on the activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The resolution, adopted with a significant majority of 137 votes, reflects widespread international condemnation of Israel's actions, which are seen as an attempt to undermine Palestinian rights and humanitarian support.
The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted the potential humanitarian and political consequences of disrupting UNRWA's operations, warning that it could deprive millions of Palestinians of essential services and threaten their right to return. Similarly, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised the resolution as indicative of global consensus on the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and statehood. The UAE also co-sponsored and voted in favor of the resolution, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international law in the occupied territories.
Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the Arab League, commended the resolution's strong backing, noting that it reflects international public sentiment against Israel's efforts to diminish UNRWA's role. He expressed grave concern over the potential humanitarian crisis in Gaza if UNRWA's operations were to cease, as desired by Israel.
The UN General Assembly's resolution reaffirmed support for UNRWA's mandate across its operational areas, including Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and the occupied Palestinian territories. It condemned recent Israeli legislation aimed at banning UNRWA's activities and urged Israel to adhere to its international obligations regarding the agency's privileges and immunities.
Israel has accused UNRWA employees of supporting Hamas, a claim that the agency and the UN have denied, asserting their commitment to neutrality. However, the implementation of Israeli legislation could lead to the cessation of UNRWA's crucial work in the occupied territories, exacerbating the dire humanitarian situation for Palestinians.
Since October 7, 2023, Israel's military actions in Gaza, supported by the United States, have resulted in significant casualties, including over 152,000 Palestinian deaths and injuries, primarily among women and children. The ongoing violence has led to widespread destruction and famine, raising alarms about the humanitarian crisis in the region.
