While the PA (Palestinian Authority) continues efforts to gain acceptance in United Nations organizations as a stepping stone to statehood, Israel has a somewhat different agenda, including the closure of UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Association for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East), which Foreign Ministry officials explain simply acts as a stumbling block to any future agreement between Israel and the PA (Palestinian Authority).

According to UNRWA, anyone who fled his home in Palestine from 1946-1948 is viewed as a refugee, as are that person’s descendents. Alternatively, in the UN’s dealings with other refuges, such a status is not transferable to descendants, and only the person who fled may be viewed as a refugee, as is the case when the UNHRC address refugees worldwide.

According to Israel’s records, there are 250,000 refugees but according to UNRWA, that number stands at 5 million, moving from those who fled, their second, third and fourth generations.

Officials in Jerusalem explain the two core issues that prevent an agreement with the PA are the refugee issue and the future of Jerusalem.

Spearheading the move to shut UNRWA is MK (HaAtzma’ut Party) Einat Wilf, who happens to have a doctorate in political science from Cambridge University. When she presented her case to the foreign ministry, she explained the status of the so-called Palestinians is unique and unprecedented, since while there are refuges around the world, none are awarded this status for generations. Wilf adds she favors providing those in need with humanitarian assistance, including education and healthcare, but not via this organization.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)