Seven European nations condemn Israeli law targeting UNRWA in Gaza

Seven European countries have united to formally censure the Israeli government over its recent legislation targeting the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA). In a strongly-worded joint statement, the governments of Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Slovenia, and Spain argued that the law violates international legal obligations and worsens the dire humanitarian emergency in Gaza.

A Direct Challenge to International Law

The statement explicitly contends that the new Israeli law, which permits cutting off water, electricity, and communications to UNRWA-run sites, contravenes rulings from the International Court of Justice. The European signatories declared the measure a breach of international humanitarian law (IHL) that endangers civilian lives. They stressed that the work of the UN and its humanitarian partners is indispensable and called for "full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access" to be upheld.

Demand to Protect NGO Operations

Beyond condemning the law, the seven nations issued a direct appeal to Israeli authorities. They urged Israel to ensure that established international non-governmental organizations "continue to be permitted to operate in Gaza and that any deregistrations be halted". This highlights fears that the legislation could be used to systematically dismantle the international aid infrastructure in the territory, which is grappling with a massive humanitarian crisis.

Broader Context of Ceasefire and War

The diplomatic rebuke comes against the backdrop of a fragile and frequently violated ceasefire agreement that halted a devastating two-year war. That conflict resulted in the deaths of nearly 71,400 Palestinians, with many more injured, and left Gaza's infrastructure in ruins. The first phase of a U.S.-brokered peace plan began on October 10, 2025, but reports from Gaza's Health Ministry indicate hundreds of Palestinian casualties from Israeli military actions since then.