Qatar Submits Written Memorandum to ICJ on Israel's Obligations in Relation to Presence and Activities of UN, Other International Organizations
The Hague, February 28, 2025
The State of Qatar has submitted a written memorandum to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding its request for an advisory opinion on United Nations (UN) General Assembly resolution 79/232 on December 19, 2024, entitled "Request for an advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the obligations of Israel in relation to the presence and activities of the United Nations, other international organizations and third States." The memo was submitted by HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Kingdom of the Netherlands Dr. Mutlaq bin Majid Al Qahtani.
In its memorandum, the State of Qatar stressed that Israel must commit to allowing the UN and other international organizations, particularly the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and other humanitarian organizations, to operate in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, and to adhere to respecting and protecting the property of the UN and other international organizations, especially schools, medical facilities, transportation and water facilities, as well as their personnel, especially those working in humanitarian and medical fields.
The State of Qatar reiterated the need for commitment to allowing and facilitating relief programs and the distribution of life-saving aid in the occupied Palestinian territories, especially food, clothing and medical supplies, including the non-obstruction of the work of the UN and other international humanitarian organizations.
It also asserted the need to repeal and halt the enforcement of the legislation passed by the Israeli Knesset on October 28, 2024 that bans UNRWA activities in Israel and East Jerusalem and prevents all forms of contact between the Israeli authorities and UNRWA, expressing confidence that the Court's opinion will clarify these crucial legal issues in securing the livelihoods of the Palestinian people and their inalienable right to self-determination.
In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad reiterated the State of Qatar's firm position in support of UNRWA, based on its international commitments and multilateral action, and its firm position towards supporting the brotherly Palestinian people.
Since its establishment, UNRWA has consistently provided essential services and vital needs to millions of Palestinian refugees in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria, Her Excellency said, warning that banning the agency's activities would lead to serious humanitarian and political consequences.