Tens of thousands of Palestinians in East Jerusalem will lose access to education, healthcare, and other essential services as Israel’s ban on the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) takes effect Thursday.
The ban, passed in November with broad support, follows allegations that UNRWA employees were involved in terror activities and that its facilities were used to incite violence. The law prohibits UNRWA from operating in Israeli territory, which includes East Jerusalem under Israeli law, and bars state agencies from engaging with the organization.
At UNRWA’s Sheikh Jarrah offices, workers were seen packing up operations. “It’s an unacceptable decision,” said UNRWA spokesperson Jonathan Fowler, adding that they cannot assure affected individuals what will happen next.
The Israeli government has not outlined plans to replace UNRWA services, leaving thousands uncertain about their future access to healthcare and education. UNRWA’s medical center in Jerusalem’s Old City serves 30,000 people, providing crucial care for chronic illnesses, prenatal support, and vaccinations.
Established in 1949, UNRWA supports millions of Palestinians across the region. Israel has long criticized the agency, arguing that its refugee policies perpetuate the conflict. The ban raises concerns about the future of Palestinian refugees in East Jerusalem and beyond.
