Israel has banned the United Nations' Palestinian refugee agency, UNRWA, from operating within its borders, sparking global criticism.
Established in 1949, UNRWA provides aid to Palestinian refugees in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria, running refugee camps, schools, and health facilities.
The agency, largely funded by voluntary UN member contributions, saw significant cuts in support earlier this year.
Israel alleges that over 10% of UNRWA's Gaza staff have ties to militant groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad and argues that the agency's schools promote anti-Israel hatred.
Israel has gradually shifted toward other humanitarian agencies, like the World Food Program and UNICEF, to deliver aid. However, UNRWA remains active in Gaza, operating shelters, clinics, and warehouses.
The ban has drawn condemnation from countries including the U.S., UK, China, and Russia, with concerns that it may disrupt critical support for Palestinian refugees.
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