The law, which was approved in the Israeli Knesset during second and third readings, effectively bans UNRWA from any direct or indirect activity within Israel, including the establishment of offices or the provision of services.

In a press statement, Guterres warned that enforcing this ban would have "devastating consequences" for Palestinian refugees in the occupied Palestinian territories, calling it “unacceptable.” The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of UNRWA, saying, “There is no alternative to UNRWA. Implementing these laws would be detrimental to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and to peace and security in the region as a whole. As I have said before, UNRWA is indispensable.”

Guterres also indicated that he plans to raise this issue with the 193-member UN General Assembly, stressing that the law violates international agreements and UN charters.

The newly passed legislation has raised alarm among international observers, as it could further complicate humanitarian efforts and add strain to the peace process in the region. (ILKHA)