US Questions UNRWA’s Neutrality at ICJ Hearing

US Questions UNRWA’s Neutrality at ICJ Hearing

Why in the News ?

At the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the U.S. raised concerns over the impartiality of UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, amid claims of Hamas ties, while Israel continues blocking its operations during the ongoing Gaza conflict.

US Questions UNRWA's Neutrality at ICJ Hearing

About the U.S. Allegations and Legal Standpoint:

  • S. representative Josh Simmons cited “serious concerns” about UNRWA’s neutrality.
  • Allegations include Hamas using UNRWA facilities and staff involvement in the October 7 attack.
  • S. asserted Israel has no obligation to allow UNRWA operations in Gaza, stating other aid channels exist.

ICJ Hearings and UNRWA’s Contested Role

  • ICJ hearings are assessing Israel’s humanitarian obligations under international law.
  • 40 nations and organisations, including the Arab League, are participating.
  • Israel is boycotting the hearings, calling them part of a “delegitimisation campaign.”
  • Investigations, including one by Catherine Colonna, noted “neutrality issues” but found no solid evidence of UNRWA’s direct involvement in the attack.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza and Aid Blockade

  • Israel banned UNRWA after October 7, intensifying the humanitarian crisis.
  • UNRWA chief reported over 50 staff were abused in detention and used as human shields.
  • Aid halted on March 2; supplies have dwindled.
  • 90% of Gazans lack safe drinking water; WFP exhausted food reserves.
  • Palestinian envoy accused Israel of using aid blockade as a weapon of war.

UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) :

Establishment:

●Founded on 8 December 1949 under UNGA Resolution 302.
● Created in response to the 1948 Arab-Israeli conflict (Nakba) to aid displaced Palestinian refugees.

Mandate:

●Provides education, healthcare, relief, social services, and emergency aid.
● Aims to support human development and self-reliance of Palestinian refugees.

Operational Scope:

● Functions in five areas: Gaza Strip, West Bank (incl. East Jerusalem), Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria.
●Directly engages with Palestinian refugee communities through field offices.

Key Services:

●Education: Operates schools, employing thousands of teachers.
● Healthcare: Manages health clinics offering primary care and emergency response.

Funding & Challenges:

● Funded through voluntary international donations (regular + emergency appeals).
● Faces financial instability, political pressure, and security risks.

Distinct Role:

●Unlike UNHCR, UNRWA deals exclusively with Palestinian refugees.
●Remains vital amid ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, ensuring basic rights and services.