Doha: The Arab League has condemned an Israeli law approved by the Knesset that would cut electricity and water supplies to offices of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, describing it as part of a long-running campaign against the organization.
According to Qatar News Agency, the Arab League's Secretariat-General for Palestine and the occupied Arab territories stated that the legislation follows a series of illegal measures aimed at banning UNRWA's work in the occupied Palestinian territories. The law is viewed as a violation of the privileges and immunities of United Nations organizations and a direct challenge to UN General Assembly decisions, including those related to the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion on Israel's obligations towards the UN and other states in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem.
The Arab League warned that the law, which it claims came into effect immediately, would severely undermine UNRWA's ability to deliver essential services to Palestinian refugees. These services are considered indispensable, especially in the Gaza Strip, and the agency plays a crucial role in reconstruction efforts.
The statement urged the international community, including states, organizations, and institutions, to uphold its legal and moral responsibilities in confronting Israeli decisions and practices targeting UNRWA. It called for the adoption of punitive measures against Israel to compel a reversal of the legislation and to ensure compliance with international law and resolutions.