Unrwa head warns against Israel’s plan to ban agency in occupied Palestine

The head of the UN’s agency for Palestinian refugees (Unrwa), Philippe Lazzarini, has warned of the consequences of Israel’s planned ban on the agency’s activities in occupied Palestine.

He was referring to a bill due to be issued by the Israeli cabinet in four weeks that aims to prohibit Unrwa’s work in the country. 

In a post on X, he said the bill is "part of broader efforts to erase Palestinian history and identity."

He added: "UNRWA can be replaced only through a functioning Palestinian state, which would address the plight of Palestine refugees. That can be reached through political will and diplomacy. It’s time to switch gears, set the priorities and work towards peace.”

Lazzarini also listed some of the work done by Unrwa since the war began in Gaza on 7 October.