United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has reaffirmed that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is indispensable and cannot be replaced. He called upon member states to offer robust political and financial backing to protect the agency’s mandate and its vital services for Palestinian refugees. This statement was delivered during a ministerial meeting held at UN headquarters, co-sponsored by Jordan, Brazil, and Spain, aimed at mobilizing international support for UNRWA.
Guterres highlighted that despite decades of operating under extremely difficult conditions, the agency continues to provide essential public services. However, he warned that its mandate and operations are currently under threat. The Secretary-General noted that UNRWA has been working under exceptional pressure for years, citing the tragic loss of approximately 400 staff members in Gaza since October 7, 2023. He also pointed to significant damage or destruction of hundreds of facilities, blocked access to sites, and the forced closure of schools and health centers in East Jerusalem.
The UN chief condemned recent actions against UNRWA infrastructure, including the raiding and demolition of its headquarters in Jerusalem and the Israeli authorities’ seizure of the Qalandia training center. He described these measures as entirely unacceptable and contrary to Israel’s obligations under international law. Furthermore, Guterres stated that the agency is facing a coordinated political campaign designed to undermine its capacity to operate and deprive refugees of their rights. Despite these obstacles, UNRWA continues to deliver humanitarian, developmental, and protection services to nearly six million refugees across Gaza, the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon.
A severe financial crisis threatens the agency’s continuity, with a cash deficit reaching $100 million. Guterres urged immediate action from member states to address this shortfall and safeguard the welfare of millions of Palestinians until a just and permanent solution to their plight is reached.
Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi echoed these sentiments, stressing that UNRWA remains crucial, particularly given the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza where millions face hunger, cold, and lack of healthcare and education. He expressed appreciation for countries like France, Germany, and Belgium that announced new donations. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares confirmed Spain’s support, noting an additional contribution of three million euros on top of $18 million provided earlier this year. Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira criticized organized campaigns targeting the agency’s staff and facilities, asserting that the international community stands with UNRWA. Acting Commissioner-General Christian Saunders thanked supporting nations, affirming that the agency persists in executing its mandate despite the harsh realities faced by refugees in occupied territories.
