In a striking display of defiance, Israeli authorities have officially declared their decision not to renew the visas of United Nations (UN) staff members actively engaged in relief efforts within a conflict-ridden region. Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen has openly accused the UN of “hypocrisy” and asserted that collaboration with individuals involved in what he deems as Hamas’ propaganda will no longer be tolerated.
“We will no longer remain silent in the face of the UN’s hypocrisy!” declared Cohen. The move has already resulted in the denial of a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths, and the latest announcement implies that two additional UN employees will face visa refusals, compelling them to leave the country.
Israel has directed sharp criticism at the United Nations for its handling of the October 7 attacks and has specifically targeted UN Women, the organization’s leading agency. Cohen condemned the agency and urged UN Women executive director Sima Bahous to vacate her position. Earlier, the foreign minister had announced the withdrawal of a residence visa for UN Humanitarian Coordinator Lynn Hastings.
This aggressive stance by Israel coincides with international condemnation of its targeting of residential areas and hospitals, as well as restrictions on aid deliveries, resulting in a worsening humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that over 100 journalists, around 270 medical personnel, and at least 134 UN staff have lost their lives in Israeli strikes, while the Palestinian death toll surpasses 20,000.
Amid this escalating situation, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has consistently called for a ceasefire, a plea that has fallen on deaf ears. The severity of the crisis has prompted warnings from the UN and aid groups about the imminent threat of hunger faced by Palestinians. Israel’s response, rather than heeding calls for a ceasefire, has taken the form of revoking visas, further exacerbating tensions in an already volatile region. The evolving situation underscores the pressing need for diplomatic engagement to address the underlying issues and strive toward a peaceful resolution.