UN officials declare UNRWA indispensable for Palestinian refugees

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi have both emphasized that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) is indispensable and cannot be replaced.

Speaking before the UN General Assembly, Guterres described the agency as a “crucial lifeline” for Palestinian refugees, particularly in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. He warned of dire consequences if the agency's operations are disrupted due to financial or political challenges, noting that no other mechanism can replicate its humanitarian and educational roles.

Following a ministerial meeting in New York to mobilize support for the agency, Safadi stated that UNRWA must continue to operate under its original mandate granted by the General Assembly. He highlighted the agency's critical role in providing food, medical supplies, and education to millions facing hunger and harsh conditions in Gaza. Safadi also noted the high cost of these operations, mentioning that 399 UNRWA staff members have lost their lives while serving in Gaza.