Turkey’s foreign ministry condemned Israel’s recent move to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within its borders, labeling it a violation of international law. This decision, Turkey argued, hinders displaced Palestinians’ right of return and poses risks to regional stability.
On Monday, Israel’s parliament passed legislation restricting UNRWA’s activities, raising concerns among some Western allies over the potential worsening of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Turkey’s Foreign Ministry warned that this decision undermines ongoing efforts toward a two-state solution, emphasizing the essential support UNRWA provides to Palestinian communities.
“Banning UNRWA goes against both legal and moral responsibilities that the international community must uphold,” stated Turkey’s foreign ministry, urging global opposition to Israel’s decision. As Chair of the UNRWA Financing Working Group, Turkey pledged continued political and financial support to the agency.
Turkey has been a vocal critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza and Lebanon, halting trade, backing a genocide case against Israel at the World Court, and calling for international intervention to curb Israeli offensives.
