File photo of Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in the New Administrative Capital. Photo: Al-Ahram
In a statement by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Egypt considered this action part of a long series of Israeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law, which indicate a growing lack of respect for the international community and the UN.
Cairo called on the international community and UN institutions, particularly the UN Security Council (UNSC), to take a strong stance against these clear and systematic Israeli crimes and violations.
"Egypt stresses that UNRWA’s role is irreplaceable and essential," the ministry said, urging the UNSC to fulfil its primary role in maintaining international peace and security.
The ministry also reaffirmed its categorical rejection of all Israeli practices aimed at displacing Palestinian residents from their lands and undermining the rights of Palestinian refugees to return and receive compensation.
Cairo further denounced the Israeli approach, which not only commits crimes against innocent Palestinian civilians but also seeks to hinder all efforts aimed at alleviating the suffering caused by Israeli policies and practices.
Moreover, Egypt warned of the continued failure of the international establishment to uphold its principles and humanitarian values, which are increasingly compromised by Israeli practices amid disappointing international inaction, the statement added.
On Monday, the Israeli Knesset approved a bill banning the UNRWA from working in Israel, following years of harsh Israeli criticism of UNRWA, which has only increased since the start of the Israeli war on Gaza in October 2023.
Several of Israel's Western allies voiced concern over the move, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer saying Britain was "gravely concerned."
Germany, which has been a steadfast defender of Israel's security, warned of Israel’s deliberate hindering of UNRWA's work in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem impossible, jeopardizing vital humanitarian aid for millions of people.
In addition, UN Chief Antonio Guterres warned the Israeli action could have "devastating consequences" if implemented and "would likely prevent UNRWA from continuing its essential work."
Meanwhile, UNRWA Chief Philippe Lazzarini warned that the vote "sets a dangerous precedent."
"It's outrageous that a member state of the United Nations is working to dismantle a UN agency which also happens to be the largest responder in the humanitarian operation in Gaza," UNRWA Spokeswoman Juliette Touma said.
Earlier this month, Israel announced plans to confiscate the UNRWA headquarters in the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood of East Jerusalem to build illegal settlement units on its site, according to media reports.
UNRWA, operating across several countries, was established in 1949 to assist Palestinian refugees displaced during the Nakba, following Israel’s creation in 1948.
Since the outbreak of the Israeli war on Gaza, more than 200 of the UN agency’s staff have been killed in Israeli airstrikes, with two-thirds of its facilities being damaged or destructed.
Short link: