Mon Nov 04 10:49:31 UTC 2024: ## Israel Cuts Ties with UN Refugee Agency, Citing Hamas Infiltration

**TEL AVIV, ISRAEL** – In a move that could severely impact humanitarian aid in Gaza, Israel has terminated the agreement facilitating the work of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA). The decision comes as part of the implementation of legislation passed last month that aims to sever ties with the agency, which Israel accuses of being infiltrated by Hamas.

The Israeli government asserts that UNRWA, the primary aid provider in Gaza, has become a tool for Hamas, the militant group controlling the territory. UNRWA denies these allegations, stating it takes measures to ensure neutrality.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed the cancellation of the agreement, dating back to 1967, which facilitated UNRWA operations. The ministry declared that UNRWA is “part of the problem in the Gaza Strip and not part of the solution.”

Aid groups have raised concerns that the legislation could severely hamper UNRWA’s work, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. While Israel has assured that other UN agencies and aid groups can fill the void, these organizations maintain that UNRWA plays a crucial role, providing education, healthcare, and other essential services to nearly 6 million Palestinian refugees and their descendants. These refugees, many of whom reside in Gaza, are the majority of the territory’s population.

This move comes amid ongoing conflicts in the region. Israel continues its war against Hamas in Gaza, while also engaging in intensified strikes against the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon. The conflict has resulted in thousands of casualties on both sides.

Meanwhile, Palestinian officials have condemned an attack in which several cars were torched near the Palestinian Authority headquarters in the West Bank. The incident is believed to have been carried out by Israeli settlers and comes as settler attacks on Palestinians and their property have surged since the outbreak of the war in Gaza.

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