The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has sounded the alarm after Israel banned it from operating on Israeli soil, warning of devastating consequences for Palestinians. Israel accuses UNRWA of being infiltrated by Hamas, but the agency describes itself as a vital lifeline for Palestinians.

John Fowler, UNRWA spokesperson, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the agency’s absence could cost lives in the Gaza Strip. “We are the essential player in the humanitarian operation,” he said, highlighting the agency’s critical role in providing healthcare, emergency aid, and education to millions of Palestinian refugees.

The situation in Gaza is dire, with a worsening humanitarian crisis and dwindling resources. The war has left over 41,000 Palestinians killed and 93,000 injured, with more than 22,000 people sustaining life-altering injuries. The health infrastructure is crippled, and aid groups warn that there is no immediate replacement for UNRWA.

The international community is calling for action. Sigrid Kaag, Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza, urged for an immediate ceasefire, unconditional release of hostages, and unimpeded humanitarian access to deliver aid at scale throughout the Strip. The representative of Algeria stressed that Israel must cooperate with humanitarian efforts, rather than opposing them.

As the crisis deepens, concerns about the future of Palestinians remain paramount. The ban on UNRWA’s operations has sparked fears of a catastrophic humanitarian fallout, with far-reaching consequences for the region.