The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) confronts a looming shutdown across the Middle East by the end of the month as funding from donors, including the United States, has been suspended.
The pause in financial support, totaling $440 million, stems from allegations that some UNRWA staff were involved in Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel. The potential suspension of operations extends to vital assistance for Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria.
Philippe Lazzarini, the agency’s Commissioner-General, issued a warning, expressing that if funding remains suspended, operations would likely cease by the end of February, impacting not only Gaza but the entire region.
This critical situation follows Israel’s claim that 13 UNRWA staff were involved in the October attack, ranging from hostage kidnapping to supplying logistical support. The ensuing funding freeze raises concerns about exacerbating the severe humanitarian needs of Palestinians, particularly in Gaza.
As the UNRWA grapples with the potential shutdown, Thomas White, director of UNRWA Affairs in Gaza, highlights the escalating crisis. Tens of thousands have been forced to flee to southern areas like Rafah due to intense bombardment and fighting in Khan Younis.
The humanitarian assistance provided by UNRWA, including food aid, is now under threat, amplifying the distress of more than 1.4 million people in makeshift structures and tents.
While fighting continues in the south, the agency also warns of an impending famine in the north of the territory, where UNRWA has had limited access since the conflict began. Reports indicate people resorting to grinding bird feed to make flour, underscoring the severity of the humanitarian crisis.
The funding suspension comes amid calls from Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Hallant, for the dismantling of UNRWA. These calls echo accusations of UNRWA complicity in the conflict, adding complexity to the already dire situation.
