RAMALLAH, December 30, 2025 (WAFA) – The Israeli Knesset has given final approval to legislation that mandates cutting electricity and water supplies to the offices of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in Jerusalem, with the low entering into force immediately.

The Israeli army radio reported that the Knesset passed the bill in its second and third readings with 59 votes in favor and 7 against. Under Israeli law, a bill must pass three readings in the Knesset to become binding.

The Knesset initially approved the bill in November, and it was then referred to the Foreign Affairs and Security Committee for further review before the second and third readings.

During the vote, Israeli Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen attempted to justify the decision, claiming that UNRWA "provides a breeding ground for incitement and violence, and therefore has no right to continue existing."

UNRWA provides services to more than 110,000 refugees in Jerusalem. The UN agency operates two refugee camps: Shuafat and Qalandiya, and manages institutions such as the Indian Corner Clinic at the Damascus Gate entrance, as well as boys' and girls' schools in Jerusalem, Sur Baher, and the aforementioned camps.

The Knesset's decision to ban the work of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) constitutes a violation of the UN Charter, international law, and international norms and agreements. It also contradicts UN General Assembly resolutions, particularly Resolution 302, which established UNRWA in 1949 in response to the Palestinian refugee crisis.

This resolution refelcts an international commitment to this issue after the failure to implement Security Council Resolution 194, which guarantees the right of return for Palestinian refugees.

Y.S