Europe Condemns Israel's Move to Cut UN Aid Lifelines

A group of European nations has publicly demanded that Israel reverse a new law. The legislation allows Israel to block essential services like water and electricity to facilities run by UNRWA, the main UN aid agency in Gaza. In a joint statement, the countries said, "We also call on Israel to ensure that established international NGOs continue to be permitted to operate in Gaza and that any deregistrations be halted." The move directly targets UNRWA, which provides critical food, shelter, and healthcare to Palestinian civilians. The agency has been a cornerstone of the humanitarian response in Gaza. Israel has long accused some UNRWA staff of having links to militant groups. The new law is seen as a major escalation of that dispute. The European statement frames the issue as a matter of international law and humanitarian access. It warns that shutting out approved aid organizations will worsen the severe crisis in Gaza.