tempo, Jakarta – The Indonesian government has strongly criticised the Israeli parliament’s initial approval of three bills targeting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong statement on social media on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, two days after a bill calling for restricting UNRWA’s activities and even designating it a “terrorist organization” was passed in first reading by the Knesset (Israel’s parliament).
“Israel’s systematic efforts to dismantle UNRWA are unacceptable and will result in the denial of Palestinian refugees’ right of return and repatriation to their home countries,” the ministry said on social media site X on Wednesday.
The first bill passed would ban UNRWA from carrying out any missions, providing services or carrying out any activities on Israeli territory. The bill was approved by an overwhelming 58-9 majority. The Israel Times.
The second bill, which passed by a vote of 63 to 9, would jeopardize the legal immunities and privileges normally accorded to UN officials in Israel.
The third bill, passed by a vote of 50-10, would designate UNRWA a “terrorist organisation” and require Israel to sever ties with the agency.
Indonesia asks for international help
Despite these initial approvals, the bill must be further debated in the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee before it can become law, which will include two additional readings of the text.
In response, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its unwavering support for UNRWA and called on the international community to “resolutely safeguard UNRWA’s humanitarian mission” to provide vital assistance to millions of Palestinian refugees.
“UNRWA must continue to carry out its mandate in accordance with international law and relevant UN resolutions,” the ministry declared.
Established under a UN resolution in 1949, UNRWA plays a vital role in assisting and protecting Palestinian refugees in five areas: Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. The Agency’s continued work is vital to the well-being of millions of Palestinians who have been forced to flee their homes.
Nabila Azzahra | Anadolu
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