Belgium Condemns Israeli Parliament's Efforts to Brand UNRWA as 'Terrorist Group'

Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib denounced the Israeli Knesset's efforts in a message posted on X, formerly Twitter, on Saturday.

Lahbib criticized the attempts to label UNRWA as a "terrorist group" and remove the immunity of its staff, emphasizing the importance of the organization's work for Palestinians amidst the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

"Belgium condemns the Israeli parliament's attempts to classify UNWRA as a terrorist organization and to remove the immunity of its staff," she said.

In related news, the European Union's foreign policy chief expressed "deep concern" over the Israeli regime's efforts to label UNRWA as a "terrorist group."

"The European Union is deeply concerned about discussions in the Israeli Knesset on designating UNRWA as a terrorist organization and removing its staff’s immunities and privileges," EU top diplomat Josep Borrell said in a statement.

The EU is also troubled by the Israeli Land Authority's order for UNRWA to vacate its East al-Quds [Jerusalem] premises within the next 30 days.

"The EU condemns any attempts to label a UN agency as a terrorist organization. We recall the crucial and irreplaceable role of UNRWA in the humanitarian response in Gaza. UNRWA provides vital services to millions of people in Gaza, the West Bank, as well as across the region, including in Lebanon and Jordan," Borrell stated.

He reiterated the EU's firm support for UNRWA, noting, "The EU is a strong supporter of the Agency, and remains, with its Member States, its biggest donor. We are committed to continuing our support, also in view of UNRWA’s implementation of the recommendations of the Independent Review Group report."

Meanwhile, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations' highest court, has ordered Israel to cease its military operations in Gaza and halt its offensive in the southern city of Rafah.

UNRWA was established in 1949 by the UN General Assembly to provide relief to Palestinian refugees. Due to ongoing atrocities against Palestinians, UNRWA's mandate has been renewed every three years.

Since the start of the Israeli genocidal war in Gaza in early October, nearly 36,300 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed.