The statement, delivered ahead of a scheduled discussion on the matter, highlighted Israel's growing frustration with the organization, which provides aid to Palestinian refugees.
"Within 48 hours, the State of Israel will cease its cooperation with the UNRWA organization. UNRWA must stop its activities and evacuate all its facilities in Jerusalem," Ambassador Danon told Security Council members. This decision is tied to the entry into force of new Israeli legislation, set to take effect on January 30. The legislation effectively bars UNRWA from operating within Israeli sovereign territory, signalling a significant shift in Israel's stance toward the organization.
The ambassador elaborated on the key provisions of the legislation, which includes a strict prohibition on any contact between Israeli entities and UNRWA. Under the new law, the organization is also forbidden from maintaining any representative offices or offering services within Israel’s borders. "Israel will end all cooperation, communication, or contact with UNRWA or anyone acting on its behalf," Danon stated emphatically, underscoring Israel’s resolve in this matter.
This announcement comes after years of diplomatic efforts aimed at urging the international community to address what Israel sees as the increasing infiltration of Hamas within UNRWA. According to the Israeli government, Hamas's presence within the organization has compromised its ability to fulfill its humanitarian mission, casting doubt on its effectiveness and integrity. Ambassador Danon emphasized, "This decision comes after years of efforts to prompt you to act against Hamas's takeover of the organization."
Danon also expressed that the failure of UNRWA to operate in a morally and professionally sound manner has led to the organization doing more harm than good. "The decision also reflects reality: UNRWA has failed morally and professionally and has harmed people who were supposed to receive services from the organization," he added. Israel's growing concerns about the organization’s operations and its ties to groups deemed as terrorist organizations have now culminated in this drastic decision, which is expected to have far-reaching implications on both the UN and the Palestinian refugee community.
As the situation continues to evolve, the world will be watching closely to see how this decision shapes the future of international aid efforts and Israel’s relationship with UNRWA.
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