Türkiye condemns Israel’s ban on UNRWA operations in occupied Palestinian territories

Türkiye has strongly condemned Israel’s decision to prohibit the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in occupied Palestinian territories, describing the move as a “blatant violation of international law.”

Türkiye’s response to Israel’s ban on UNRWA

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Foreign Ministry criticized the Israeli government’s decision, calling it a new phase in Israel’s policies of occupation and annexation aimed at forcibly displacing Palestinians from their land.

“It is also evident that, with this decision, Israel seeks to deprive Palestine refugees of their right to return to their own land,” the ministry said.

Türkiye urged the international community to support UNRWA and take the necessary steps toward regional peace. The ministry reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to backing the agency and defending the rights of Palestinians.

UNRWA’s role, impact of ban

Established by the U.N. General Assembly in 1949, UNRWA provides humanitarian aid and essential services to millions of Palestinian refugees. The agency operates with the strong support of U.N. member states, offering education, healthcare and social services to displaced Palestinians.

Israel’s ban, which took effect Thursday, applies to areas it considers its sovereign territory, including occupied East Jerusalem, but does not extend to Gaza or the West Bank.

The restriction also prohibits UNRWA staff from engaging with Israeli authorities, raising concerns about the impact on agency operations across Palestinian territories.

UNRWA allegations, investigation findings

Israel previously accused some UNRWA staff of involvement in the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas.

However, an investigation by the U.N. Office of Internal Oversight Services did not confirm the Israeli claims, stating that the evidence presented could not be authenticated.