UN Chief Warns of Possible Reference to International Court Over Israeli Laws

UN Secretary-General Warns Israel Over Laws Targeting Palestinian Refugee Agency

In October 2024, Israel passed a law banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from operating in Israel and prohibiting Israeli officials from having contact with the agency. The UN has since issued a warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that if the laws are not repealed and UNRWA’s seized assets and property are returned, the country may face international legal action.

In a letter dated January 8, 2024, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged Netanyahu to reverse the actions taken by Israel, which he deemed in contravention of international law. The UN considers East Jerusalem occupied by Israel, while Israel claims it is part of the country. Guterres emphasized that UNRWA is an integral part of the United Nations and highlighted its obligations under the 1946 Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the UN.

Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, dismissed Guterres’ warning, stating that the Secretary-General was “defending” an organization marred by terrorism. The UN has denied these allegations, stating that nine of its staff members who may have been involved in a Hamas-led attack on Israel were fired and that the agency is committed to providing aid and services to millions of Palestinians.

The ICJ (International Court of Justice) reiterated Israel’s obligation to respect the privileges and immunities accorded to UNRWA and its personnel, stating that the country should ensure the basic needs of the civilian population in Gaza are met. The ICJ opinion was requested by the 193-member UN General Assembly.

Source: Al Jazeera