UN Agencies in Gaza Face Visa Denials Amid Humanitarian Crisis

The situation for United Nations agencies operating in Gaza has deteriorated, as Israel has refused to renew visas for the heads of key humanitarian organizations, explicitly linking the move to the advocacy efforts for civilian protection. This latest development was confirmed by UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, stating that local leaders from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), and the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) have had their visas unrenewed in recent months. In a briefing to the Security Council, Tom Fletcher, the UN's humanitarian chief, emphasized the dual role of UN agencies: not only to provide aid but also to advocate for compliance with international humanitarian law. He lamented that each report made by these agencies leads to threats of reduced access to the very civilians they aim to assist, underscoring a heightened tension in Gaza where delivering aid conflicts with the essential advocacy for civilian rights. Israel's mission to the UN indicated that it is reviewing the issue, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing allies asserting that UNRWA is infiltrated by Hamas. They claimed that the agency’s staff took part in the October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel, which has raised concerns over the agency's operations in Israeli territory. Consequently, Israel has formally barred UNRWA from functioning in its domains, with its commissioner general, Philippe Lazzarini, unable to enter Gaza. Fletcher elaborated on the dire conditions in Gaza, describing them as "beyond vocabulary," with food shortages leading to civilians being shot while searching for sustenance. He criticized Israel, labeling it as the occupying power that is failing its obligations under the Geneva Conventions to meet the civilian populace's needs. In his statements, Fletcher pointed out that security clearances for UN staff to enter Gaza have also been denied, impacting emergency medical teams crucial for life-saving missions. He reported an alarming string of denials, highlighting that 56 requests were turned down just in 2025 for emergency medical workers. The plight of aid workers has become increasingly perilous, with many facing hunger and the constant threat of violence. Yet, amidst worsening conditions, a delegation consisting of the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Pierbattista Pizzaballa, and Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III managed to access Gaza. Their visit aimed to convey support and solidarity from the Churches of the Holy Land while also planning to send essential supplies, including food and medical aid, to families in need. Tragedy continues to grip the region as funerals took place for victims of violence, including a recent attack on the Holy Family Catholic Church, where three Christians lost their lives. This incident sparked international attention, including a phone conversation between former US President Donald Trump and Netanyahu, expressing frustration over the military strike against the church. Netanyahu later conveyed Israel's regret for the unintentional damage caused during military operations, reiterating that strikes target militants and that every effort is made to minimize civilian harm. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate, as international bodies call attention to the urgent need for both aid and advocacy, underscoring the intersection between humanitarian work and the ongoing conflict. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2