Overview
- Israel’s Knesset approved legislation revoking UNRWA’s diplomatic immunity and barring Israeli companies from supplying water and electricity to the agency’s institutions.
- UNRWA says the law authorizes expropriation of its properties in East Jerusalem, including its headquarters and main training center.
- UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini condemned the measure as outrageous and said it defies the ICJ’s guidance and the UN system’s privileges and immunities.
- The League of Arab States said the law took effect immediately upon approval and warned of catastrophic repercussions for UNRWA’s ability to operate.
- Filippo Grandi cautioned that UNRWA provides indispensable education and healthcare, as Israel’s accusations against the agency remain disputed by UN-linked reviews that found neutrality issues but no conclusive proof of widespread complicity.