In a unified stance, Jordan, Egypt, and the Arab League have strongly condemned recent Israeli legislative moves targeting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The proposed Israeli bills aim to halt UNRWA’s operations in the occupied Palestinian territories, sparking widespread international backlash.
Jordan Leads the Charge Against Israeli Legislation
Jordan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ayman Safadi, was at the forefront of the condemnation, denouncing the Israeli draft bills as blatant violations of international law. Speaking during his first appearance at the BRICS ministerial meetings in Moscow, Safadi emphasized that these bills would deprive Palestinians of essential rights and services.
Safadi stated:
“These bills are a blatant violation of international law and deprive the Palestinian people of essential rights and services recognized by the international community.”
He further highlighted the indispensable role of UNRWA in providing relief and support to Palestinian refugees, stressing that Israel’s actions are part of a broader strategy to undermine the refugee issue without addressing the root causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Arab League and Egypt Join the Condemnation
The Arab League Secretary-General, Ahmed Aboul-Gheit, echoed Jordan’s sentiments, expressing full solidarity with UNRWA. He condemned Israel’s plans to seize UNRWA’s East Jerusalem headquarters, intending to convert the site into a settlement. According to Israel Hayom, the Israeli Land Authority is preparing to confiscate the UN site and build 1,440 settlement units.
Aboul-Gheit remarked:
“Israel is implementing a plan to eliminate the role of UNRWA and liquidate it. We stand in full Arab solidarity with the UN agency against these fiercest liquidation campaigns.”
Similarly, Egypt’s Foreign Ministry criticized Israel’s persistent attempts to block UNRWA, labeling them as flagrant violations of international law, humanitarian law, the UN Charter, and relevant Security Council resolutions. Egypt has called on the UN Security Council to take responsibility for maintaining international peace and security, urging the international community to support UNRWA’s lifesaving operations.
The International Community’s Response
During a meeting with UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, Jordan’s Minister Safadi underscored the necessity for global opposition to Israel’s proposed bills. He called on international partners to defend UNRWA’s mandate and ensure the agency can continue its critical work without hindrance.
Key points from the discussion included:
- Political Support: Garnering backing from global institutions to uphold UNRWA’s operations.
- Financial Assistance: Securing funds to sustain UNRWA’s programs amidst potential disruptions.
- Comprehensive Solutions: Addressing the refugee issue through internationally recognized resolutions to achieve lasting peace.
Implications for the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
The proposed Israeli bills targeting UNRWA have significant implications for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By attempting to dismantle UNRWA, Israel may be seen as undermining the humanitarian framework that supports millions of Palestinian refugees. This move could escalate tensions and hinder efforts toward a comprehensive and peaceful resolution.
Moreover, the international condemnation from Jordan, Egypt, and the Arab League highlights the critical role of UNRWA in the region and the potential consequences of its dissolution. The collective response underscores the importance of maintaining robust support systems for refugees to foster stability and peace in the Middle East.
