Spain, Slovenia, Ireland and Norway condemn the law that prohibits UNRWA from operating in Israel

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation has issued a "Statement by the Governments of Spain, Slovenia, Ireland and Norway condemning the Knesset legislation against UNRWA".

"The governments of Spain, Slovenia, Ireland and Norway condemn the Knesset's approval of legislation preventing UNRWA from operating in the occupied Palestinian territory," the statement said.

"UNRWA is mandated by the United Nations General Assembly. The agency's work is essential and irreplaceable for millions of Palestinian refugees in the region, and particularly in the current context of Gaza. The legislation passed by the Knesset sets a very serious precedent for the work of the UN and all organisations of the multilateral system".

"Spain, Slovenia, Ireland and Norway will continue to work with donor and host countries to ensure the viability of UNRWA's work and humanitarian role," the statement concluded.

Non official translation