New York, January 1, 2026 (WAFA) – UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the Israeli occupation authorities’ prevention of electricity and water from facilities belonging to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in Jerusalem.
Dujarric added in a press statement on Thursday that this step would further hinder the agency’s ability to operate and carry out its activities .
He pointed out that the United Nations Privileges and Immunities Agreement remains in force with respect to UNRWA, its property and assets, and its other officials and employees, as the property used by UNRWA is protected, and the UN agency is an integral part of the international organization .
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini also condemned the move, saying it was part of a systematic and ongoing campaign to discredit UNRWA and obstruct its role in providing assistance to Palestinian refugees .
The Israeli Knesset gave final approval on Tuesday to a bill that would cut off electricity and water to the offices of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in occupied Jerusalem, and it will come into effect immediately .
The Israeli army radio said that the Knesset approved in its second and third readings a bill to cut off electricity and water to UNRWA offices, with a vote of 59 out of 120 members in favor, and 7 voting against the bill .
Any bill requires three readings in the Knesset to become law .
The Knesset approved the bill last November, and after the vote it was referred to the Foreign Affairs and Security Committee to prepare it for the second and third readings .
During the voting session, Israeli Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen tried to justify the decision, claiming that UNRWA operates as a breeding ground for incitement and murder, and has no right to continue to exist .
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