Israel withdraws from UNRWA agreement, citing security concerns
This picture taken during a media tour organised by the Israeli army on February 8, 2024. (AFP Photo)
Israel formally notified the United Nations on Sunday of its decision to withdraw from a longstanding agreement with the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), citing security concerns as the primary reason.
Letter to UN General Assembly president
In a letter sent to U.N. General Assembly President Philemon Yang, Israel’s Foreign Ministry outlined that the withdrawal pertains to the 1967 agreement that governs UNRWA’s operations in support of Palestinian refugees.
The decision will be implemented after a three-month transition period.
Despite the withdrawal, Israel stated it would continue working with international partners, including other U.N. agencies, to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches civilians in Gaza. The ministry stressed that aid facilitation should align with Israel’s security needs to avoid compromising its safety.
The letter also referenced ongoing security concerns, emphasizing that Israel expects the U.N. to contribute to regional stability by aligning humanitarian efforts with safety measures.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry copied the letter to U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
Statements from Israeli officials
Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the U.N., expressed frustration on social media, noting: “Despite the overwhelming evidence we submitted to the U.N. that substantiate Hamas’ infiltration of UNRWA, the U.N. did nothing to rectify the situation.”
He added that Israel would continue to work with humanitarian organizations that do not support actions it perceives as terrorism.
Following the legislation on UNRWA, the State of Israel officially notified the President of the General Assembly of the termination of cooperation with the agency. Despite the overwhelming evidence we submitted to the UN that substantiate Hamas’ infiltration of UNRWA, the UN did nothing to rectify the situation. The State of Israel will continue to cooperate with humanitarian organizations but not with organizations that promote terrorism against us.
Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon
Israel has had a complex relationship with UNRWA, which was established in 1949 to assist Palestinian refugees. Over the years, Israel has expressed concerns about the agency’s operations, citing alleged connections with militant groups and security risks.
