The Knesset has advanced a government-backed bill that would prohibit the provision of electricity and water to facilities owned or operated by the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees. The legislation, which passed its first reading with 28 votes in favor and 8 against, would also allow the government to seize properties in Jerusalem previously leased to the agency, bypassing standard legal proceedings. The bill aims to formalize restrictions on the agency's operations in Israeli territory, following earlier measures that barred the organization and limited state contact with it. Israeli officials have accused the agency of ties to militant groups and incitement, while some see its humanitarian work as a stabilizing force in the region. The bill will now move to committee for further consideration before additional readings.