UN chief warns Israel that UNRWA ban could harm aid for Palestinians

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that a new law banning the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) from operating in Israel and East Jerusalem could severely impact aid for Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. The Israeli parliament approved the ban, which will take effect in three months, amid ongoing tensions between Israel and UNRWA. Guterres emphasized that international law requires occupying powers to facilitate humanitarian aid, which UNRWA provides. Norway plans to ask the International Court of Justice to clarify Israel's obligations regarding humanitarian assistance to Palestinians. This follows the ban on UNRWA and reflects growing international concern over the humanitarian situation in the region.