The bill, which passed its second and third readings, is expected to bring about a dramatic shift in Israel’s relationship with the international organization and significantly impact its activities within the country.
According to the bill, the sole 1967 agreement allowing UNRWA to operate in Israel will be nullified, leading to the agency’s immediate cessation of activities. Furthermore, the law prohibits any contact between Israeli officials and UNRWA personnel, including the provision of diplomatic visas and economic benefits. Another key provision in the law states that any criminal proceedings related to crimes committed on October 7, or in relation to anti-terrorism laws, will remain in effect against UNRWA employees.
MK Yulia Malinovsky from Yisrael Beiteinu, one of the initiators of the bill, commented after the vote: “Today, one day before the anniversary of October 7, we are restoring some justice to the victims of that cursed Sabbath and their families.”
MK Boaz Bismuth stated: “The approval of the law, one day before October 7, is proof that the phrase ‘what was will not be’ is not just an empty slogan. By doing this, we are sending a clear and sharp message to terrorists: we will not forget, we will not forgive, and we will take every measure necessary to ensure the security of our country.”
The law has sparked a broad political and international debate. While its supporters argue that it is essential for protecting Israel’s security, critics warn of potential humanitarian consequences for the Palestinian population. Following the committee’s approval, the bill is expected to be brought to a vote in the Knesset plenary soon. If passed, it will likely have significant implications for Israel-UNRWA relations and the humanitarian situation in the region.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry and UNRWA representatives have not yet officially responded to the bill’s approval in the committee, but the issue is expected to elicit widespread international reactions in the coming days. The decision marks a major shift in Israel’s policy towards UNRWA and may affect Israel’s relations with other international actors.
