The Muslim World League (MWL) has issued a strong condemnation of the Israeli parliament’s decision to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This move by the Israeli Knesset has sparked widespread international criticism, with the MWL joining the chorus of voices expressing deep concern over the humanitarian implications for Palestinian refugees.
His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, reiterated the organization’s unwavering support for UNRWA and its crucial role in providing essential aid and services to Palestinian refugees across the Middle East. In an official statement, the MWL characterized the Israeli action as a continuation of systematic violations targeting UN institutions and undermining established international resolutions concerning the rights of the Palestinian people.
The MWL emphasized the indispensable nature of UNRWA’s work, highlighting its provision of vital education, healthcare, and social services to millions of Palestinian refugees. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa called upon the global community, including nations, organizations, and individuals, to collectively confront what the MWL perceives as ongoing Israeli aggression against international norms and humanitarian law. The organization urged the upholding of these laws to ensure UNRWA can continue its mandated operations without hindrance.
The Israeli parliament’s ban follows accusations of alleged involvement of some UNRWA staff in the events of October 7th, 2023. While UNRWA promptly addressed these allegations and an independent review found neutrality-related issues but no conclusive evidence supporting Israel’s primary claims, Israel has proceeded with the ban.
The MWL’s strong criticism aligns with the growing international outcry against Israel’s decision. Numerous organizations and countries have cautioned against the severe humanitarian consequences of impeding UNRWA’s operations, particularly in regions like Gaza and the West Bank, where the agency serves as a critical lifeline for a substantial portion of the population. Many observers view this ban as a step that will further destabilize an already volatile situation and potentially undermine any prospects for a peaceful resolution in the region.