Israel has officially requested the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) to halt its operations within Jerusalem and vacate its facilities by January 30, 2025. This demand, communicated by Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, stems from recent Israeli legislation and escalating national security apprehensions.

Danon's letter to Guterres highlighted Israel's anxieties regarding the alleged infiltration of UNRWA by Hamas and other militant groups. He criticized the agency's perceived inability to address these concerns and its purported deviation from impartiality. The ambassador emphasized Israel's right to not cooperate with entities deemed threats to national security.

A UN vehicle at the UNRWA offices in Jerusalem on April 2, 2024. (Photo by Yoav Dudkevitch/TPS)

This action echoes former President Donald Trump's critical stance on UNRWA, who significantly reduced US funding to the organization during his presidency. A UN spokesperson reiterated the Secretary-General's support for UNRWA and its crucial role in the occupied Palestinian territories. They confirmed ongoing communication with relevant parties, emphasizing UNRWA's continued commitment to aid delivery.

The IDF and ISA targeted Hamas commander Mohammad Abu Itiwi, allegedly involved in civilian attacks and linked to UNRWA according to Israeli sources. (IDF Spokesman's Unit)

Anne Bayefsky, Director of the Touro Institute on Human Rights and the Holocaust, expressed support for Israel's decision, criticizing UNRWA's funding model and educational practices.

Ambassador Danny Danon addresses media at the UN headquarters in New York City on October 2, 2024. (REUTERS/Stephani Spindel)

The Israeli Knesset's legislation, backed by both ruling and opposition parties, severs ties with UNRWA, including diplomatic privileges. Critics, including the Biden administration, have voiced concerns about potential humanitarian consequences for Palestinians dependent on UNRWA's services.

The IDF released images purporting to show Hamas members within a UNRWA facility in Rafah. (IDF)

Prior to the official announcement, an UNRWA representative maintained the organization's commitment to neutrality and robust internal systems. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini acknowledged potential staff involvement in the October 7th attacks and confirmed subsequent dismissals after an internal investigation. Danon urged the UN to address the alleged infiltration of its agency to uphold its credibility.