Mon Nov 04 10:26:43 UTC 2024: ## Israel Cuts Ties with UNRWA, Citing Hamas Infiltration

**JERUSALEM** – Israel has officially announced its decision to sever ties with the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, following the passage of a new law. The decision will take effect early next year.

The Israeli government cites Hamas infiltration within UNRWA as the primary reason for the break, claiming that the agency has failed to address their concerns despite evidence presented. Israel’s Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, stated that the UN has taken no action to rectify the situation.

However, UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini has refuted these claims, stating that the agency has received no response from Israel regarding their requests for specific evidence. He further emphasized that UNRWA is “in the invidious position of being unable to address allegations for which it has no evidence.”

The move comes at a critical time, as UNRWA has been a vital lifeline for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, particularly following the devastation caused by the recent conflict. Lazzarini warns that dismantling the agency will have “a catastrophic impact on the international response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.”

Israel assures that it will continue providing humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza through other channels, working with international partners. However, humanitarian agencies have already raised concerns regarding delays and unsafe conditions for aid distribution within Gaza.

Meanwhile, Israel launched a ground raid into Syria, capturing a man allegedly involved in Iranian networks supporting militants in the region. This marks Israel’s first ground raid during the ongoing conflict.

In a separate development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his stance on Hezbollah, demanding that the militant group be pushed back beyond the Litani River, with or without a ceasefire deal. Netanyahu emphasizes the need to prevent Hezbollah from rearming, a crucial factor in ensuring the safe return of evacuated residents.

The current conflict has resulted in over 43,300 Palestinian fatalities, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Israel continues to maintain that Hamas, designated a terrorist group by the US and other Western countries, is still holding 101 hostages, including 35 believed to be deceased.

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