Palestine Responds to Attempts to Exclude UN Agency: Israel Seeks to Erase Palestinian Issue

Palestinian Presidential Adviser Dr. Mahmoud al-Habbash criticized the announcement that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) would not be included in the plans for the 'new Gaza Strip' after the war. He emphasized that this step is part of Israel's strategy to eliminate the Palestinian issue and refugee problem. Al-Habbash noted that Israel's policies openly challenge the international community, international law, and the United Nations. He reminded that the Israeli state was established by a UN decision and that Israel's disregard for the international decisions that formed its foundation is a clear disrespect to international law and the UN. Al-Habbash stated that until the Palestinian refugee issue is permanently resolved in accordance with international law and UN General Assembly Resolution 194, which provides for the right of return and compensation, Israel cannot take any steps against UNRWA. He emphasized that no organization can replace UNRWA and called on the international community not to be a part of Israel's policy to disable and eliminate the agency.