Guterres says Israeli rules blocking Unrwa violate international law

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday said that Israel seeks to further impede Unrwa's ability to operate in Gaza, adding that Israeli regulations are inconsistent with the international legal framework. 

"The Law and its amendments are inconsistent with the status and international legal framework applicable to Unrwa and must be immediately repealed," Guterres said in a statement, according to his spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

The UN agency is covered by the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the UN, which extends to its assets, property, officials and personnel, Guterres said.

"Unrwa's continued operations in Gaza contribute to the effective implementation of Security Council resolution 2803 (2025) and the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict on the ground," he added.

On Monday, the Israeli Parliament approved a bill to cut electricity and water supplies to the Unrwa offices.