Is UN Chief Calling for Urgent Support for UNRWA?
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Synopsis
The UN Secretary-General's urgent appeal highlights the critical need for funding and political support for UNRWA, emphasizing the dire situation facing Palestinian refugees. With escalating challenges, this call for action is a pivotal moment for international solidarity. Will the global community respond to this urgent need?
Key Takeaways
- UNRWA is a lifeline for Palestinian refugees, providing education and healthcare.
- Secretary-General Guterres has called for urgent funding and political support.
- UNRWA faces significant challenges, including budget shortfalls and operational pressures.
- The international community must act to prevent a humanitarian crisis.
- Support for UNRWA is crucial for regional peace and stability.
United Nations, Sep 26 (NationPress) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for essential funding and political backing for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
"Today, I urge you to provide the financial and political support UNRWA requires to foster peace and stability -- for both Palestinians and Israelis, as well as for the entire region," Guterres declared at a ministerial meeting aimed at supporting UNRWA.
In his address, the UN leader highlighted that generations of Palestinian refugees have relied on UNRWA for crucial services, including education and healthcare. Before October 2023, the agency provided education to over half a million children in the region. Currently, it offers emergency food and cash aid to 2.6 million individuals, with its primary clinics receiving approximately 10.5 million visits annually.
Nevertheless, Guterres pointed out that UNRWA is facing severe challenges, including the loss of staff in Gaza, destruction of its facilities, and significant budget deficits.
The UN chief appealed to member states to extend their support to UNRWA by promoting solidarity, providing political backing, and countering misinformation that endangers one of the few lifelines available to many Palestinian refugees. This is crucial for ensuring that the agency has the necessary resources to fulfill its mission, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini addressed the meeting, stating that the international community is now confronting the dire outcomes of prolonged inaction and impunity: famine, a potential military occupation in Gaza, increasingly bold settlers, and gradual annexation in the occupied West Bank, along with a multilateral system that is in jeopardy.
He cautioned that without a substantial influx of new funding, the provision of vital services to millions of Palestinian refugees will be jeopardized by the end of the year.
"History will question why our predecessors did not prevent the genocides occurring under their watch," Lazzarini emphasized, urging UN member states to advocate for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the unconditional release of hostages.
Point of View
I believe it is paramount for our nation to stand in solidarity with the UN's call to support UNRWA. The plight of Palestinian refugees is a humanitarian issue that transcends borders. Our support can contribute to restoring hope and stability in a region fraught with challenges, emphasizing our commitment to humanitarian values.
NationPress
26/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UNRWA?
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) provides essential services like education and healthcare to Palestinian refugees.
Why is funding for UNRWA critical?
Funding is vital for UNRWA to continue delivering essential services to millions of Palestinian refugees, especially amid escalating challenges.
How many individuals does UNRWA currently support?
UNRWA currently provides emergency food and cash assistance to approximately 2.6 million people.
What challenges is UNRWA facing?
UNRWA is facing budget shortfalls, operational pressures, and safety concerns for its staff, particularly in Gaza.
What did Secretary-General Guterres urge member states to do?
Guterres urged member states to provide political support and funding to ensure UNRWA can fulfill its mandate.
