Breaking News: Israeli Parliament Passes Bills Affecting Humanitarian Aid for Palestinian Refugees
UNRWA Spokesperson, Jonathan Fowler, recently revealed the grave consequences of two new bills passed by the Israeli Parliament in the aftermath of the conflict between Hamas and Israel. These bills directly impact access to humanitarian aid for Palestinian refugees, potentially leading to a collapse of the entire humanitarian operation and affecting millions of Palestinians.
In an exclusive interview with Vatican News, Fowler explains how the first bill prohibits the UN aid agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, from providing humanitarian assistance within Israel’s borders. The second bill makes any contact between Israeli officials and UNRWA illegal, further complicating the situation.
Since the implementation of these laws in January 2025, UNRWA employees have faced numerous challenges. Fowler describes the uncertainty surrounding the new law, questioning the implications of “no contact” and how it affects their daily operations.
Despite these obstacles, UNRWA remains committed to delivering aid to those in need. Fowler emphasizes that their presence in the Middle East has evolved over the years, with a focus on providing essential services to Palestinian refugees.
The most affected area, according to Fowler, is Gaza, where thousands of UNRWA staff members have been displaced. If UNRWA is unable to continue its operations, the entire humanitarian operation in Gaza could be at risk of collapse.
As UNRWA plays a crucial role in providing aid to Palestinians, Fowler warns that a complete ban on the agency’s activities could have far-reaching consequences, impacting other humanitarian organizations in the region.
Despite the challenges ahead, UNRWA remains steadfast in its mission to support Palestinian refugees and provide essential services during these uncertain times.
