Israel's parliament passed a controversial law Monday banning the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within its borders, sparking international concern over worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza. The move comes amid intensified military operations in northern Gaza, where Palestinian officials claim 100,000 residents are stranded without basic supplies. 🚨
Israeli authorities justified the UNRWA ban by alleging some staff members were involved in Hamas' October 2023 attacks. UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini condemned the decision, calling it a violation of international law and part of a campaign to 'delegitimize' aid efforts for Palestinian refugees.
As tanks pushed deeper into Gaza's Jabalia region, the Palestinian emergency service reported critical shortages of food and medicine. The Israeli military stated it detained 100 suspected militants during a hospital raid—a claim both Hamas and medical staff deny. Gaza's health ministry reported at least 19 deaths from Monday's bombardments. 💔
Ceasefire Talks Renewed Amid Regional Tensions
Egyptian-mediated negotiations resumed Sunday, proposing a two-day truce to exchange hostages and prisoners. While Israeli PM Netanyahu confirmed ongoing discussions, both sides remain entrenched: Israel vows to continue until Hamas is 'eradicated,' while Hamas demands full withdrawal from Gaza.
The conflict has spilled across the Middle East, with Israeli strikes killing 16 in Lebanon and escalating tensions with Iran. Analysts warn the situation could destabilize global oil markets and trigger wider regional conflict. ⚠️
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Israel votes to ban UNRWA; Palestinians say 100,000 residents trapped
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