Türkiye condemns Israel’s ban on UNRWA operations, calls it violation of Int’l law
People walk past the damaged Gaza City headquarters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) on February 15, 2024 (AFP Photo)
Türkiye’s Foreign Ministry condemned Israel’s recent steps to bar the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, from operating in Israel, and severely curtailing its activities in Gaza and the West Bank, calling the move a clear violation of international law.
Türkiye condemns Israeli legislation targeting UNRWA
In a written statement, Türkiye’s Foreign Ministry criticized the Israeli Knesset for advancing efforts to ban UNRWA’s operations in occupied Palestine, emphasizing that such actions contravene established international legal frameworks.
Steps taken by the Israeli Parliament to end the activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in the Occupied Palestinian Territories clearly violate international law.
Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye
UNRWA essential for regional stability
The statement also highlighted Israel’s intention to undermine the two-state solution and obstruct the return of Palestinian refugees to their homeland by targeting UNRWA. Since its establishment in 1949, UNRWA has provided critical assistance to millions of Palestinian refugees, and its work is considered vital for maintaining regional stability.
By targeting UNRWA, Israel aims to destroy the two-state solution and prevent the return of Palestine refugees to their homeland.
Since 1949, UNRWA has provided vital assistance to millions of Palestine refugees, and its activities are crucial for regional stability.
Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye
Türkiye’s commitment to supporting UNRWA
Türkiye reaffirmed its commitment to supporting UNRWA, both politically and financially, as part of its leadership in the agency’s Working Group on Funding.
It is the legal and moral obligation of the international community to take a strong stance against attempts to ban UNRWA, which was established by a UN General Assembly resolution.
As the Chair of the Working Group on the Financing of UNRWA, Türkiye will continue to provide political and financial support to the Agency.
Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye
The ministry urged the international community to uphold its legal and moral responsibility in standing against efforts to ban UNRWA’s operations, stressing that the agency’s mandate, established by the U.N. General Assembly, remains crucial.
