Israel recently made a controversial decision to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA), which has sparked widespread condemnation. Dr. Philippa Whitford, a former MP and surgeon who worked in Palestine, described this move as an attack on the UN and the international order itself.
According to Dr. Whitford, banning UNRWA will have catastrophic consequences for Palestinians, as the agency plays a crucial role in providing support such as education and healthcare to those in need. She emphasized that this decision by the Israeli parliament undermines international law and sets a dangerous precedent for other countries to disregard the UN’s authority.
The establishment of UNRWA came after the Nakba, which resulted in the displacement of around 750,000 Palestinians from their homes when Israel was founded. The agency has since been a lifeline for many Palestinians, ensuring they have access to essential supplies and services in Gaza and the West Bank.
Despite criticism from Israel’s allies like the US and the UK, the Israeli government has pushed forward with the ban on UNRWA employees, citing alleged connections to Hamas attacks. However, Dr. Whitford expressed skepticism that these actions would lead to any significant consequences for Israel.
In response to Israel’s ban, 52 charities have emphasized that there is no viable alternative to UNRWA, and removing the agency’s support will hinder the work of other humanitarian organizations in the region. Dr. Whitford stressed the importance of UNRWA’s presence in Gaza, especially in delivering essential medical supplies and aid to those in need.
While calls for sanctions against Israel have been made in light of this controversial decision, Dr. Whitford acknowledged the challenges of holding the country accountable on the international stage. Despite the strong words from Israel’s allies, there has been no concrete action taken to address the ban on UNRWA.
In conclusion, the ban on UNRWA by Israel has raised concerns about the country’s commitment to international law and humanitarian efforts in the region. Dr. Whitford’s insights shed light on the broader implications of this decision and the potential repercussions for Palestinians who rely on UNRWA’s support.
