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The United Nations’ high court docket, the Worldwide Court docket of Justice, on Friday ordered Israel to forestall acts of genocide in opposition to Palestinians and do extra to assist civilians.
A spokeswoman for Wong mentioned Australia revered the independence of the court docket, and that it famous “choices of the ICJ are binding on the events to a case”.
“Australia’s place has been clear and constant all through this disaster,” she mentioned.
“We have now constantly urged all events to the battle to respect worldwide humanitarian regulation, advocated for humanitarian entry, and known as for civilians to be protected and hostages launched.”
Australia’s $6 million in funding to UNRWA was a part of a further $22 million humanitarian help package deal introduced by Wong on her first go to to the Center East earlier this month.
The additional funding for the UN company on the time threatened to anger native pro-Israel teams who had beforehand accused the company of serving to foster antisemitism and extremism within the West Financial institution and Gaza. The company had denied the allegations.
Lazzarini didn’t elaborate on what the staffers’ alleged position was within the assaults. However in a press release, he known as the allegations stunning and mentioned any worker “concerned in acts of terror shall be held accountable, together with by way of prison prosecution”.
“UNRWA reiterates its condemnation within the strongest attainable phrases of the abhorrent assaults of seven October” and requires the instant and unconditional launch of all Israeli hostages, he mentioned.
The company has 13,000 staffers in Gaza, nearly all of them Palestinians, starting from academics in colleges that the company runs to medical doctors, medical employees and support employees.
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The US State Division mentioned it was “extraordinarily troubled” by the allegations in opposition to 12 staff and had quickly paused further funding for the company.
“Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with United Nations Secretary Common Antonio Guterres on January 25 to emphasize the need of a radical and swift investigation of this matter,” a assertion mentioned.
“We welcome the choice to conduct such an investigation and Secretary Common Guterres’ pledge to take decisive motion to reply, ought to the allegations show correct.
“UNRWA performs a vital position in offering lifesaving help to Palestinians, together with important meals, medication, shelter, and different important humanitarian assist. Their work has saved lives, and it’s important that UNRWA tackle these allegations and take any applicable corrective measures.”
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The US is the company’s greatest donor, offering it with $US340 million in 2022 and a number of other hundred million in 2023.
UNRWA officers didn’t touch upon the affect that the halt in funding would have on its operations.
Stéphane Dujarric, spokesman of United Nations Secretary-Common António Guterres, mentioned an “pressing and complete” unbiased assessment of the company can be carried out.
With AP
