World News: In a significant legislative move, Israeli lawmakers passed a bill on Monday aimed at halting the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) within Israel. The new law, which still awaits final implementation, has raised serious concerns among international allies over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. UNRWA has been a major provider of aid and essential services to Palestinian refugees across the region, including the West Bank and Gaza, where it supports over 1.9 million displaced Palestinians facing acute shortages of food, water, and medical care.Impact on humanitarian aid distributionThe law prohibits UNRWA from any activities or service provisions within Israel, putting immediate strain on Gazas fragile aid infrastructure. UNRWAs suspension could collapse aid distribution channels, especially as the war in Gaza intensifies. Israel has defended the legislation by citing security concerns, claiming that several UNRWA staff have alleged ties to Hamas militants, accusations that prompted some international donors to withdraw funding from the agency in previous years. While some funds have been restored, the organization remains a critical, yet fragile, link in Gazas aid network.A Call for Justice or a strained humanitarian systemLawmaker Boaz Bismuth, co-sponsor of the bill, described the legislation as a call for justice, contending that UNRWA serves Hamas rather than refugees. The bill passed in a decisive 92–10 vote after a heated parliamentary debate, predominantly opposed by Arab members of Israels Knesset. Supporters argue the law targets Hamas-affiliated operatives, while opponents warn it endangers Palestinian civilians reliant on UNRWAs education, healthcare, and support programs.Global concern as Gazas death toll mountsInternational aid groups and Western allies, including the United States, voiced strong objections. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller expressed deep concern over the laws impact, stating that “Theres nobody that can replace [UNRWA] right now in the middle of the crisis.” UNRWAs communications director, Juliette Touma, highlighted the potential consequences, describing the agency as the largest humanitarian organization in Gaza. If the law is implemented, it could leave a dangerous vacuum in aid distribution.Escalating conflict and humanitarian tollMeanwhile, the humanitarian toll continues to climb. In Gaza, the conflicts death toll has reportedly surpassed 43,000, with Palestinian health officials indicating that more than half are women and children. The Israeli military has been urging civilians to evacuate northern Gaza, where ongoing offensives continue, including raids near key hospitals. These actions, aimed at disrupting alleged militant strongholds, have raised further concerns over civilian safety amid restricted medical access.The bill will take effect 60 to 90 days after Israels Foreign Ministry informs the UN, with no current provisions for alternative agencies to replace UNRWAs essential services.
