Why Israel Refuses to Accept the UN's 'Indispensable' UNRWA

Israel has delivered a definitive message to the US, stating it will not permit the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) to resume operations in the Gaza Strip, directly contradicting a recent advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

An Israeli official, quoted by the Kan public broadcaster this morning, categorically declared that UNRWA will “not step foot in Gaza” again. This staunch position was reportedly communicated to the United States "in the hope that the Americans will agree with Israel on this issue."

The official justified the decision by asserting that every UN agency that has operated in the coastal enclave has either "failed in its mission or allowed itself to be controlled by Hamas."

ICJ Rejects Allegations, Cites Obligations

The Israeli stance comes a day after the ICJ, the UN's highest court, issued a stinging advisory opinion, urging Israel to cooperate with UNRWA to facilitate humanitarian aid in Gaza. The court concluded that Israel, as the "occupying" power, has a legal obligation to ensure the essential supplies for the Gaza population and must not impede relief efforts, particularly those of UNRWA.

Crucially, the ICJ dismissed Israel's main argument for banning the agency, finding that Israel had not substantiated its allegations that UNRWA had been significantly infiltrated by Hamas or was no longer a neutral organization. The court emphasized UNRWA's "indispensable" role as the only body with the capacity to adequately provide relief in the Strip.

Jerusalem 'Categorically Rejects' Ruling

In the immediate aftermath of the ICJ's pronouncement, Israel's Foreign Ministry publicly rejected the opinion, calling it "entirely predictable" and "another political attempt to impose political measures against Israel under the guise of 'International Law.'"

Israel reiterated its long-standing claims that UNRWA is "infested with terror activities," alleging that employees were directly involved in the October 7, 2023 attacks and continue to assist Hamas. The ministry stated that Israel will "not cooperate with an organisation that is infested with terror activities," despite the ICJ's finding of insufficient evidence.

While the ICJ's ruling is an advisory opinion and not legally binding, it carries significant legal weight and increases international pressure on Israel regarding humanitarian access. The move puts Jerusalem on a collision course with the international community and its primary ally, the US, as a fragile ceasefire continues to hold in the region.