United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has strongly criticized Israel's decision to cut off electricity and water to facilities operated by the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees. The move follows new legislation passed by the Israeli parliament, which also revokes diplomatic immunity for the agency and prevents Israeli companies from supplying utilities to its institutions.

The United Nations has argued that the agency's property and personnel are protected under international conventions, and described the ban as a serious impediment to humanitarian operations. The head of the agency, Philippe Lazzarini, called the decision part of a systematic campaign to undermine the organization's role in providing assistance to Palestinian refugees.

The controversy comes amid longstanding accusations that the agency has cooperated with Hamas, with Israel presenting evidence of staff involvement in attacks. While a United Nations review acknowledged some neutrality concerns, it said Israel had not provided proof that many staff members were linked to terrorist groups. Despite these disputes, the International Court of Justice recently ordered Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza through United Nations agencies, a ruling criticized by both Israel and the United States.