The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Israel has announced a change in its visa issuance policy for United Nations (UN) workers, citing the recent conflict initiated by Gaza’s Hamas terrorist organization. As of now, entry visas to the State of Israel will no longer be automatically granted to UN employees, marking a shift from the previous practice.
Lior Haiat, a spokesperson for the Ministry, revealed that one employee from the UN Women agency currently working in Israel will be required to leave the country as Israel has declined to extend their visa. Haiat explained that the decision stems from the perceived inadequate response of the UN, including its Secretary-General, and specific agencies, such as UN Women, to the events that unfolded during the conflict. The Ministry accuses the UN of remaining silent on the suffering of Israelis, particularly highlighting concerns about sexual abuse and rape against Israeli women.
Furthermore, the Ministry disclosed that a second worker’s entry visa application was rejected this week, emphasizing a case-by-case approach for UN employees seeking visas for Israel.
This development follows Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations stating in October that the country would cease issuing visas to UN officials. The decision was prompted by what Israel perceives as a double standard employed by the United Nations, alleging support for Hamas in Gaza over Israel. The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, faced criticism, with Israel confirming the refusal of a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. The Israeli government aims to address these concerns through a more selective and scrutinized approach to visa issuance for UN workers.
