The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated the irreplaceable role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), calling for immediate action on all fronts to strengthen support for the agency’s vital work. This statement was made during a high-level ministerial meeting hosted by Jordan and Sweden on the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, emphasizing the agency’s importance in the lives of Palestinian refugees, particularly in Gaza.
Guterres remarked that if there is any glimmer of hope in this dire situation, it is UNRWA, which continues its operations and resilience despite catastrophic conditions. However, he cautioned that UNRWA is not a sustainable long-term solution for the plight of Palestinian refugees. He pointed out that the agency’s operational capacity is being choked, with humanitarian responses in Gaza severely hampered. Additionally, he highlighted the political attacks against the agency, which include systematic disinformation campaigns aimed at tarnishing its reputation.
In response, UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini warned that the agency is facing a fierce attack, noting that senior Israeli officials have described the destruction of the UN agency as a “war goal.” Lazzarini explained that these efforts aim to strip Palestinians of their refugee status and unilaterally alter the standards for a future political solution. He stressed that the organization is committed to ensuring the neutrality of its staff and operations.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached a catastrophic level, especially following the recent hostilities between Israel and Hamas. As of now, more than 41,000 Palestinians have been killed, with over 90,000 wounded, primarily affecting women and children. The population, totaling around two million, is crammed into a space comparable to a small city, living amid dire conditions, including sewage, garbage, and rubble.
The blockade imposed by Israel for over sixteen years has severely limited access to essential services, leaving more than half of Gazans dependent on international aid. Food insecurity is rampant, with approximately 90% of the population facing crisis levels of hunger. Furthermore, the ongoing siege has disrupted electricity and water supply, leading to significant public health risks, including potential outbreaks of diseases.
The infrastructure in Gaza has been devastated, with reports indicating that between 30% and 61% of structures have been either destroyed or damaged due to Israeli airstrikes. Hospitals are overwhelmed and unable to provide adequate care, with critical medical supplies running low and facilities exceeding their capacities.
