Israel's Ban on UNRWA: Reasons and Criticisms
15
World
October 29, 2024 13:20
jerusalem - The decision by Israel to ban UNRWA has sparked international backlash. Learn about the reasons behind Israeli discontent with the UN organization.
The antipathy towards UNRWA has various reasons, starting with the organization's mandate. UNRWA is the only UN agency that focuses specifically on one group of refugees, the Palestinians. Unlike displaced people worldwide who are assisted by UNHCR, Palestinians have their own separate organization. Moreover, 'Palestinian refugee' is a hereditary status, allowing descendants to inherit refugee status from their fathers registered with UNRWA. This perpetuates the hope of a return to Israel after 75 years, a criticism from Israel.
Another major point of contention is the perceived lack of neutrality by UNRWA. The ties between the organization and Hamas have long been a source of disagreement. Former UNRWA Commissioner-General, Peter Hansen, acknowledged in 2004 that the organization employed Hamas members, stating it was not a crime. This has raised doubts among Israelis.
Israeli criticism also extends to the textbooks printed under UNRWA's auspices. Since the Oslo Accords in 1994, these books, according to Israel, have become overtly anti-Semitic, showcasing a bias against Jews. Current Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini admitted to several issues with the textbooks, but Israel questions the effectiveness of UNRWA's mechanisms to address them.
Furthermore, investigations have revealed that some UNRWA-paid teachers have displayed bias on social media, including glorifying terrorists and promoting anti-Semitism. After attacks in October last year, reports emerged of UNRWA employees involved in violence. The Israeli government confirmed the active participation of at least seven UNRWA staff members in attacks.
Considering these factors, Israel's ban on UNRWA seems understandable from their viewpoint. Knesset member Yuli Edelstein, the initiator of the ban, described UNRWA as a promoter of terror and hate rather than a humanitarian aid organization.