New York, 5 March 2024 (TDI): Amidst a worsening crisis in Gaza, a statement has been issued by the commissioner-general of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) urgently appealing for global action to address the dire situation.
Created 75 years ago by the United Nations General Assembly, the agency faces unprecedented challenges due to financial strain and deliberate attacks. Urgent action is needed to prevent further suffering and uphold the rights of Palestine refugees.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees Commissioner-General statement urgently pleaded for a political resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict at the General Assembly.
He emphasized the dire situation, highlighting over 30,000 Palestinians killed in 150 days, including children and UN staff, during the Gaza war. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened, marked by widespread hunger, malnutrition, and a severe lack of basic services.
Moreover, the Commissioner-General statement states about problems that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) faced after staff complaints.
This led to donors cutting funds. Even though they acted quickly by ending contracts and investigating, not having enough money puts life-saving work at risk, especially in Gaza.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees’ vital role in providing education and healthcare to Palestine refugees in Gaza and the West Bank faces threat.
Questions about the agency’s neutrality arise amidst efforts to dismantle its operations. Eviction attempts from headquarters in East Jerusalem and restrictions in the West Bank worsen challenges.
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Call for Political Resolution
The Commissioner-General asked countries to focus on finding a political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He said the General Assembly needs to act quickly to get enough money for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees and fix problems with its funding.
Also, he said other options besides the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees should respect Palestinian refugees’ rights and try to solve all the problems.
In conclusion, the Commissioner-General pointed out that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees is only temporary, showing that the international community hasn’t achieved peace in the region. It’s crucial to act fast to stop more suffering and respect the rights and dignity of Palestinian refugees.
