UNRWA Accuses Israel of Breaching International Law Over Gaza Aid Restrictions

UNRWA Official Highlights Legal Breaches Amid Gaza Aid Crisis

A senior official with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has asserted that Israel is in breach of international law by continuing to impose restrictions on the flow of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. Natalie Boucly, UNRWA's Deputy Commissioner-General, made the statement during a recent visit to Brussels, underscoring the severe humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza where the population faces critical shortages of essential goods as winter approaches.

Boucly specifically referenced the Fourth Geneva Convention and a recent advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as the legal basis for her assertion. The ICJ ruling, issued on October 22, 2025, affirmed that Israel, as an occupying power, has an obligation to ensure that Palestinians have access to the 'essential supplies of daily life' and must facilitate relief schemes, particularly those provided by UNRWA, without impediment. The court also found that Israel's allegations regarding UNRWA's neutrality or ties to Hamas were unsubstantiated.

Dire Humanitarian Situation and Aid Blockages

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with residents experiencing critical shortages of

• food
• water
• medical supplies
• fuel
• shelter materials

. Boucly highlighted that famine continues to grip the population, and the onset of winter is expected to exacerbate these already severe needs. According to UNRWA, only approximately half of the estimated 500-600 daily truckloads of aid required are currently entering the devastated territory.

UNRWA has substantial aid stockpiled outside Gaza, including enough food, tents, and other essential goods to fill up to 6,000 trucks, which could sustain the entire population for about three months. However, these vital supplies are currently held in Jordan and Egypt, unable to reach those in need due to Israeli restrictions.

Israel's Stance and International Calls for Pressure

Israel has previously severed diplomatic relations with UNRWA, accusing the agency of being infiltrated by Hamas and misusing its facilities. While nine UNRWA employees were dismissed following allegations of involvement in the October 7, 2023 attacks, the ICJ found Israel's broader claims to be unproven. Israel has also been accused of preventing UNRWA international staff from entering Gaza. Israeli officials have, at times, blamed the UN for slow aid distribution and accused Hamas of diverting aid.

In light of the ongoing crisis, Boucly urged the international community, including the European Union and the United States, to intensify pressure on the Israeli government to ensure the unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.