UK, France, and Germany Condemn Israel's Legislation Against UNRWA Operations
February 02, 2025
12:05 PM
Reading time: 3 minutes

On Friday, the Foreign Ministers of the United Kingdom, France, and Germany issued a joint statement expressing their deep concerns about Israel’s recent legislation against the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This move, which forbids any contact between Israeli state entities and UNRWA and prohibits the agency’s presence in Israel and East Jerusalem, has drawn strong condemnation from the three European powers.
The foreign ministers emphasized that Israel has an international obligation to ensure the provision of humanitarian aid and basic services to the civilian population in Gaza. They stressed the importance of international cooperation, urging Israel to collaborate with global partners, including the UN, to fulfill these commitments.
The statement underlined the critical role of UNRWA in providing vital services to Palestinian refugees in Gaza and the West Bank. According to the ministers, no other entity or UN agency possesses the infrastructure and experience necessary to take on the mandate of UNRWA. As a result, they called on Israel to work with international partners to ensure that humanitarian aid continues to reach those in need.
In addition to condemning the restrictions on UNRWA, the statement acknowledged the significant increase in humanitarian assistance reaching Gaza since the ceasefire began. The foreign ministers urged all parties to ensure the continuity of this vital aid, which has been a lifeline for many Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict.
While the ministers expressed support for UNRWA’s mission, they also called for a thorough investigation into any UNRWA staff members involved in the October 7 massacre. They highlighted the importance of UNRWA demonstrating neutrality in its operations to maintain its credibility and the trust of the international community.
The joint statement comes at a time of heightened tensions surrounding the Gaza conflict and the broader issue of Palestinian rights. The ministers emphasized the need for continued dialogue and efforts to uphold humanitarian principles in the region.