Israel’s parliament has voted to ban the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, accusing employees of terrorist activities. The U.N. found some allegations to be false, but acknowledged the involvement of nine employees in a recent attack against Israel. The ban comes following a warning from the Biden administration about restricting military aid if humanitarian assistance in Gaza is not increased. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini condemned the ban as violating the U.N. charter and endangering Palestinian children. Israeli critics argue that UNRWA perpetuates a false narrative about Palestinian refugees. Foreign ministers from France, Germany, and other countries have expressed concern over the ban. Israeli parliament members, including the bill’s author, believe that UNRWA’s work is counterproductive and hinder peace in the region.
This move follows ongoing tensions between Israel and the U.N., with Prime Minister Netanyahu referring to the organization as an “antisemitic swamp.” Israel has also accused U.N. peacekeepers in Lebanon of putting themselves at risk during a recent IDF ground invasion. Despite warnings to leave their posts, the peacekeepers have remained in place as mandated by U.N. Resolution 1701.
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