The World Muslim League (WML) has issued a strong and unequivocal condemnation of the recent decision by the Israeli parliament to restrict the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This significant move by the Israeli Knesset has drawn sharp criticism from the prominent international Islamic organization, raising concerns about the dire humanitarian consequences for millions of Palestinian refugees.
His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the World Muslim League, has voiced the organization’s profound opposition to the Israeli restrictions. In a strongly worded statement, the WML reaffirmed its unwavering support for UNRWA and its indispensable role in providing vital aid and essential services to Palestinian refugees across the Middle East. The league emphasized that UNRWA’s work is crucial for the well-being and stability of the region.
The WML views Israel’s actions as a detrimental step that undermines international efforts to provide humanitarian assistance and disregards the fundamental rights of Palestinian refugees as enshrined in international law and UN resolutions. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa called upon the international community to exert pressure on Israel to reverse its decision and to ensure the continued and unimpeded operation of UNRWA.
The Israeli restrictions on UNRWA follow allegations made by Israel regarding the involvement of a small number of the agency’s staff in the events of October 7th, 2023. While UNRWA has taken swift action to investigate these claims and an independent review found neutrality-related issues but did not substantiate Israel’s primary accusations, the Israeli government has proceeded with measures that threaten the agency’s ability to deliver essential aid.
The World Muslim League’s strong stance adds to the growing international concern over the impact of these restrictions on the already precarious humanitarian situation in the Palestinian territories, particularly in Gaza and the West Bank, where UNRWA provides a lifeline to a significant portion of the population. The WML’s voice joins those urging for the protection and continuation of UNRWA’s vital mission.