Cairo, February 4, 2025 – The Arab League held an extraordinary session at the level of permanent delegates today to address the serious repercussions of the Israeli Knesset’s controversial decision to ban the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in the Palestinian territories occupied in 1967, including East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip. The session was convened in response to the escalating situation and was initiated by Jordan, in coordination with Egypt and the State of Palestine, with strong backing from several Arab countries.
The decision by Israel to curtail UNRWA’s operations has sparked widespread concern within the international community, as the agency plays a critical role in providing humanitarian aid, healthcare, education, and other essential services to Palestinian refugees. The closure of UNRWA's operations in these key areas threatens to exacerbate the already dire conditions faced by the Palestinian people, particularly in Gaza and East Jerusalem, and undermines the longstanding support for Palestinian refugees across the region.
Representing Saudi Arabia at the session, the Kingdom’s Permanent Representative to the Arab League, Abdulaziz Al-Matar, participated actively in the discussions. His presence underscored Saudi Arabia's strong commitment to supporting Palestinian rights and its ongoing efforts to challenge any measures that threaten the welfare and rights of Palestinian refugees.
The extraordinary session focused on the collective Arab response to Israel’s actions, which are deemed illegal under international law. Arab representatives are expected to issue a statement during the meeting, reaffirming the unified Arab stance in rejecting Israel’s decision. The Arab League's collective message is clear: Israel’s decision to ban UNRWA operations is not only a violation of Palestinian rights but also a threat to regional stability and peace.
The session also explored further diplomatic and legal avenues through which Arab nations could mobilize international support to ensure the continuation of UNRWA’s vital operations in the occupied territories. The League's stance aims to galvanize global pressure on Israel to reverse its decision and restore critical humanitarian aid for Palestinian refugees.
This meeting reflects the Arab world’s ongoing solidarity with Palestine, underscoring the region’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of Palestinian refugees and continuing their support for international institutions like UNRWA, which have been fundamental to alleviating the hardships faced by displaced Palestinian communities. The session is seen as a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to address the broader humanitarian and political challenges facing the Palestinian people, and to assert the Arab League's united position on this critical issue.
