Israel plans to ban UNRWA operations in Gaza, raising humanitarian aid concerns

Israel plans to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from operating in Gaza. This decision raises concerns about the delivery of humanitarian aid to the region. The ban follows accusations that some UNRWA staff were involved in the October 7 attack by Hamas. In response, Israel's parliament passed legislation to prohibit the agency's operations, leading to a review of EU support and temporary funding suspensions from several countries. While a UN investigation cleared most staff of wrongdoing, the future of UNRWA's operations in Gaza remains uncertain. The ban could significantly impact humanitarian efforts in an area already facing severe challenges.