European nations condemn Israel’s ban on Unrwa operations

Seven European nations have voiced strong opposition to Israel’s decision to shut down Unrwa's operations in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, telling the UN Security Council they “deeply deplore” the move.

In a joint statement, Belgium, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Slovenia, and Spain condemned Israel’s unilateral withdrawal from the 1967 agreement with Unrwa, accusing it of obstructing the agency’s ability to carry out its UN-mandated work.

The group also demanded an immediate halt to the enforcement of Israel’s ban, insisting the measure violated international law and the UN Charter.

“We stand firmly behind Unrwa as part of our humanitarian commitment and our unwavering defence of international law, including international humanitarian law,” the statement read.