The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has been a cornerstone of humanitarian support for Palestinians since its establishment in 1950, providing essential services such as education, healthcare, and emergency relief. Recently, the Israeli Knesset passed two bills banning UNRWA from operating within Israel, a move expected to severely impact aid distribution in Gaza, particularly amid ongoing conflict. This decision follows earlier accusations against UNRWA staff regarding their alleged involvement in the October 7, 2023 attacks, leading to a significant reduction in international funding for the agency.
UNRWA serves nearly 6 million Palestinians, with its services critical for the survival of many in refugee camps across Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. In 2021, the agency reported that over 545,000 children were enrolled in its schools, while approximately 1.7 million people received life-saving humanitarian assistance. The recent legislative changes may hinder UNRWA's ability to provide these vital services, including health care, education, and social support, which are particularly crucial in light of the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict.
