New York, 5 March 2024 (TDI): At the recent UNGA briefing on the situation facing UNRWA, Ambassador Munir Akram, acting Chair of OIC at UN, reaffirmed OIC’s unwavering commitment to the rights of Palestinian refugees, including their right to return.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) at the United Nations issues a fervent plea for the continuation of sufficient, predictable, and sustained funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

With Pakistan taking the lead, the OIC calls upon donors to reconsider their decision to suspend funds.

Acknowledging the crucial role of UNRWA in meeting the increasing needs of Gazans.

He stressed the necessity for sustained financial support for UNRWA to ensure its ability to provide essential services to over 1.9 million displaced Gazans.

OIC Expresses Solidarity with Palestine

The OIC appreciates Commissioner General Lazarini’s briefing and salutes UNRWA’s invaluable aid to Gaza’s devastated population.

The OIC condemns the recent violence perpetrated by Israeli occupation forces resulting in the deaths and injuries of numerous Palestinians seeking basic necessities for survival.

Furthermore, the OIC reaffirms its enduring commitment to upholding the rights of Palestinian refugees, including their right to return, in accordance with international law.

Ceasefire and Accountability

Ambassador Munir Akram demands an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza.

Additionally ,calls for decisive action to hold Israel accountable for its extensive human rights violations, including war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The OIC insists that Israel must not enjoy impunity for the atrocities committed against the Palestinian people, including attacks on UN premises, hospitals, schools, and declared safe zones.

The OIC emphasizes the urgent need for adequate and unimpeded humanitarian assistance to the besieged people of Gaza.

Also Read: UNRWA discusses the status of Palestinian refugees

In conclusion, the OIC urges the international community to stand in solidarity with Palestinian refugees and to take immediate decision to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Additionally, the OIC calls for the immediate reversal of the suspension of funding to UNRWA

Furthermore, demands accountability for the human rights violations perpetrated by the Israeli occupation forces.