UN condemns Israeli law cutting power, water to UNRWA facilities

The United Nations has condemned an Israeli law that halts electricity and water supplies to facilities run by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Wednesday that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticised Israel’s move to cut electricity and water to UNRWA facilities. He added that the decision would “further impede” the agency’s ability to operate and carry out its activities.

Dujarric said, “the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations still applies to UNRWA, its property and assets, as well as its officials and other personnel.” He stressed that “property used ‌by UNRWA ‌is inviolable,” under international law.

He also said that UNRWA is an “integral part” of the world body.

Separately, UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini condemned the move, saying it was part of an “ongoing, systematic campaign to discredit UNRWA and thereby obstruct” its role in providing assistance to Palestinian refugees.

In 2024, the Israeli Knesset passed a law banning UNRWA from operating in Israel and preventing Israeli officials from having contact with the agency.