Tunisia’s Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti on Saturday renewed his country’s rejection of Israeli measures aimed at changing Jerusalem’s historical and legal status, warning that efforts to dismantle the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) would undermine their right of return.
Addressing the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, Nafti said Tunisia opposes unilateral Israeli actions in Jerusalem, including forced displacement, home demolitions, and attacks on Muslim and Christian holy sites.
He also condemned the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and “acts of genocide in Gaza,” urging the international community to address the “historic injustice” suffered by Palestinians.
“Any attempt to dismantle UNRWA or undermine its mandate is a desperate attempt to extinguish the right of return and liquidate the Palestinian cause,” he said.
Israel’s parliament passed legislation in late 2024 restricting UNRWA operations. The agency was subsequently ordered to vacate its headquarters in East Jerusalem, and Israeli authorities have raided and closed other UNRWA premises in the city.
Nafti also condemned Israeli attacks on Syrian territory and expressed Tunisia’s hope that Syrians will be able to preserve their country’s unity and sovereignty over all its territory.
Irregular migration
Turning to irregular migration, the top diplomat called for a “comprehensive and balanced” approach that recognizes its human and historical dimensions and goes beyond a narrow focus on security.
He said such an approach should address conflict, poverty, economic and social inequality, lack of jobs and development, and human trafficking.
Nafti said Tunisia continues to rescue irregular migrants on land and at sea, provide them with care, and coordinate voluntary returns with the International Organization for Migration while protecting their dignity and rights.
He reiterated Tunisia’s refusal to become a transit country or a place of residence for irregular migrants.