UNITED Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Wednesday condemned Israel’s decision to approve legislation that would effectively curtail the operations of UNRWA, the UN agency tasked with assisting Palestinian refugees, describing the measure as an attempt to systematically weaken the organisation.
“The amendment is intended to continue obstructing UNRWA’s ability to carry out its operations and fulfil the mandate entrusted to it,” Guterres said in a statement released by his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, as reported by Anadolu Ajansi.
He added that the law, along with related amendments, is inconsistent with the status and legal framework governing UNRWA under international law and “must be repealed immediately.”
Guterres emphasised that UNRWA functions as an essential component of the United Nations and is fully protected under the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations. This protection extends to the agency’s assets, property, officials and staff.
“Property used by UNRWA is inviolable,” he said, underscoring Israel’s obligations under the UN Charter and the Convention.
The Secretary-General also recalled a 22 October advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice, which reaffirmed Israel’s duty to respect fully the privileges and immunities of the United Nations within the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including UNRWA and its personnel.
Guterres reiterated his “strong support” for UNRWA, highlighting the agency’s vital role in providing humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in Gaza and the wider region.
“The ongoing operations of UNRWA in Gaza contribute to the effective implementation of Security Council Resolution 2803 (2025) as well as the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict on the ground,” he said.
The controversy follows Israel’s parliament approving a bill on Monday to cut electricity and water supplies to UNRWA offices, a measure that took immediate effect. - January 2, 2026
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