A Number of European Countries Condemn Israeli Law Blocking Water and Electricity to UNRWA Facilities

JAKARTA - Seven European countries on Monday condemned Israeli legislation that includes measures to cut off water, electricity and communications supplies to facilities run by the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA).

"This action undermines the UN mandate, violates international law, and is contrary to the findings of the International Court of Justice, and has serious humanitarian consequences for Palestinian civilians and refugees," said a joint statement by Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Slovenia and Spain, reported Anadolu (5/1).

The statement called on Israel to ensure that established international NGOs "continue to be allowed to operate in Gaza and that any revocation of permits is halted."

The statement noted the work of the UN, particularly UNRWA, along with other humanitarian organizations and NGOs, "is critical" to addressing the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.

"We underline the obligation to ensure full, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access and to enable the continuation of the functions of UN humanitarian operations and their partners, in accordance with international humanitarian law (IHL) and relevant international legal obligations," the statement said.

The statement added: "Respect for the privileges and immunities of the United Nations and for international humanitarian law is essential."

Last week, the Israeli Parliament approved an amendment to the Law to Stop UNRWA Operations, which blocks the provision of electricity and water to UNRWA facilities.

On September 29, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced a 20-point plan to end the war in Gaza, including a ceasefire, the release of Israeli prisoners, the disarmament of Hamas, Israel's withdrawal from the area, the formation of a technocratic government and the deployment of international stabilization forces.

The first phase of the agreement came into force on October 10, 2025, but Israel continues to violate several of its provisions and has delayed the transition to the next phase, phase two.

Since the ceasefire agreement came into force on October 10, the Israeli army has committed hundreds of violations, killing 420 Palestinians and injuring 1,184 others, according to the Ministry of Health.

The ceasefire halted Israel's two-year war that has killed nearly 71,400 Palestinians, mostly women and children, wounded more than 171,200 others, and left the territory in ruins.