Israel’s recent decision to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within its borders marks a significant shift, heightening calls for international donors to reconsider their support of the agency in light of ongoing concerns about its impact on Israeli security and regional stability. The new laws, passed by the Knesset, not only bar UNRWA activities within Israel but also prohibit Israeli officials from engaging with the agency.
The issues surrounding UNRWA’s impartiality and its alleged role in perpetuating tensions are not new. Earlier this year, the UN identified serious “neutrality issues” within UNRWA, pointing to educational materials that propagate anti-Israel and antisemitic rhetoric within its schools. Such findings suggest a concerning trend that challenges UN principles and undermines peace.
In April 2024, the Abraham Global Peace Initiative (AGPI) published a comprehensive report advocating for the dismantling of UNRWA and proposing a neutral, temporary organization in its place. This proposed body would aim to promote Palestinian self-sufficiency and regional stability, allowing communities to escape cycles of dependency while focusing on constructive development.
In fact, shortly before the October 7 massacre, I had met with UNRWA officials at their headquarters in Jerusalem, where I warned them about the growing antisemitism in their textbooks and the incitement and violence such messaging was fostering. I raised these concerns again in New York, where I led a delegation to meet with Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on Palestinian issues. There, we emphasized another grave concern: Hamas’s reported use of UN facilities to hide weapons, putting lives at risk and undermining regional security.
Regrettably, our concerns were met with denial, minimization, and refusal to act in both cases. This dismissive stance is not unique to my experience; UNRWA and other UN officials have received ample warnings from various voices in the international community about the agency’s role in fostering tensions. Despite these repeated calls to address radicalized content in educational materials and the misuse of UN facilities, the agency’s leadership has consistently sidestepped taking meaningful action.
UNRWA’s inability to maintain neutrality has taken on an increased urgency in the wake of the tragic events of October 7. That day’s attack again cast doubt on UNRWA’s impartiality and its commitment to peace, and it underscored the risks of allowing a UN agency to operate without sufficient accountability. A harrowing example is the case of Jonathan Samerano, a young Israeli murdered by Hamas at the Nova Music Festival, whose body was reportedly transported into Gaza with the assistance of an UNRWA-linked staffer. Such incidents highlight how the agency’s failure to address its internal issues has led to tragic consequences, with serious implications for the lives and security of Israelis.
“Ending UNRWA is not a dismissal of history; it’s an invitation to a future,” said Arab-Israeli diplomat George Deek. “Without the weight of perpetual victimhood, Palestinians would be free to shape lives filled with opportunity and ambition. By closing UNRWA, we can replace a cycle of dependency with the chance for Palestinians to build a future of lasting hope and resilience.” Deek’s words capture the spirit of a forward-looking approach to the challenges facing Palestinian communities — a vision many see as overdue.
The West is still covering up for UNRWA. UN Secretary-General António Guterres recently stated, “There is no alternative to UNRWA,” yet an increasing number of voices argue that the agency has hindered more than it has helped the peace process. I propose an alternative approach: an internationally-funded initiative that encourages Palestinian refugees to integrate into their host countries and build stable lives rooted in independence. Such a shift would promote cooperation, reduce dependency, and pave the way for peace that serves both Palestinians and Israelis.
Israel’s recent decision, and the growing calls to reassess funding to UNRWA, reflect a wider recognition that holding the agency accountable is essential to stability in the region. Nations like Canada, a notable donor to UNRWA, are also facing calls to reconsider their financial support for the agency. I believe Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly’s recent move to join other western leaders in issuing a statement that appeared to challenge Israel’s decision is misguided, raising questions about Canada’s interference in Israel’s parliamentary democracy.
The time has come for donor countries to evaluate UNRWA’s role honestly and critically. Redirecting funds toward initiatives that prioritize genuine support for peace and self-sufficiency would underscore a commitment to a stable, resilient Middle East — one where both Palestinian and Israeli communities can coexist in lasting security and cooperation.
Avi Abraham Benlolo is the Founder and CEO of The Abraham Global Peace Initiative