Norway, 29 January 2024 (TDI): Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide released a statement in response to the alarming allegations regarding UNRWA’s involvement in the terrorist attack on October 7, 2023, with UN employees implicated. However, Norway’s support for UNRWA advocates justice for Gaza.
We strongly denounce the attack that occurred on October 7 and insist on bringing those responsible to justice. Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide emphasized the ongoing call for the immediate release of all hostages in Gaza.
The current situation in Gaza is dire, with 80 percent of the population displaced, seeking shelter in overcrowded schools, he added.
Tragically, numerous civilians, including children, over 150 UNRWA staff, and journalists, have lost their lives. The civilian population is grappling with severe shortages of food, water, and inadequate access to health services.
Regrettably, some nations have halted aid to the Palestinians through UNRWA during this crisis, according to Eide.
However, with severe food, water, and health service shortages as well as inadequate healthcare, UNRWA continues to be a crucial lifeline for almost two million people in Gaza.
Norway points out its support for UNRWA in the face of complaints made against certain staff members. The Minister stresses the crucial role UNRWA plays as an essential link for 2 million people in Gaza and asks donors to think about its implications.
“The population of Gaza has an urgent need for humanitarian aid, they must not pay the price for other people’s misdeeds”, said Eide.
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Norway’s significant support reflects a commitment to Gaza’s well-being. Minister Eide urges prioritizing urgent humanitarian needs without imposing collective punishment.
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Minister Eide underlines how important it is to differentiate between acts of generosity and the vital services that UNRWA provides. Prioritizing Gaza’s population’s critical humanitarian needs is necessary without imposing collective punishment. Norway’s constant backing shows that it cares about the welfare of millions of people in Gaza during this crucial period.
