MOSCOW, October 31, 2024 (WAFA) – Russia has criticized Israel's decision to ban the activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), stating that it violates the standards of international law.

In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry emphasized that UNRWA is the sole source of support for Palestinians in humanitarian assistance, education, health, and social services.

The ministry warned that the Israeli ban could deprive 650,000 Palestinian children in the occupied territories of education and could deny millions of Palestinians access to essential aid.

The statement pointed out that the Gaza Strip is currently experiencing some of the most intense bombing since World War II.

It also noted that the decision was made during a time of unprecedented bloodshed in the region, characterizing it as a form of collective punishment for millions of Palestinians.

The statement concluded that "the adoption of this legislation not only constitutes a violation of international law, including UN General Assembly resolutions and its charter, but also contradicts the terms under which Israel joined the United Nations."

M.N