The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs has notified the United Nations it is cancelling its agreement with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which allowed their operation in Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry Director-General, Jacob Blitshtein, sent a notification letter to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President, Philemon Yang of Cameroon, informing him of Israel’s decision, reports say.
On October 28, 92 members of the 120-seat Israeli Knesset, or parliament, voted in favour of a ban on activities of the UN agency in the occupied Palestinian territories, a move that was condemned by European and Western countries and international organisations.
The legislation will take effect after a three-month period. “During this time, and thereafter, Israel will continue to work with international partners, including other United Nations agencies, to ensure the facilitation of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza in a way that does not undermine Israel’s security,” the statement said.
