The United Nations spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, denied rumors about Israel’s government submitting a document or proposal to dismantle the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The claim suggested that the proposal was presented to UN officials in Israel and forwarded to the Secretary-General.
Dujarric stated that the Secretary-General’s office had not received such a document, reiterating the UN’s steadfast position on UNRWA. He affirmed that UNRWA remains a lifeline of hope and service provision for millions of Palestinians in the region, including Gaza, and is currently the backbone of their humanitarian operations there.
In its latest report, UNRWA indicated that Israeli military operations continued across the Gaza Strip, resulting in further civilian casualties, displacement, and destruction of homes and other civilian infrastructure. The report also mentioned ongoing air raids and shelling in northern Gaza, Khan Yunis, and Rafah.
UNRWA’s estimates reveal that approximately 1.2 million people are now living in Palestinian Rafah, the majority in official and unofficial shelters. As of March 30, up to 1.7 million people, or over 75% of Gaza’s population, have been displaced, many of them multiple times, as families frequently move in search of safety.
UNRWA’s presence in Gaza remains critical amidst escalating violence and operational challenges. Despite facing incidents impacting its premises and staff, with over 150 UNRWA employees killed and multiple facilities affected, UNRWA continues to provide vital services to the displaced populations. The density of people in shelters has exacerbated sanitation issues, leading to the spread of diseases. Despite these challenges, UNRWA’s efforts in providing health services, including over 2.8 million medical consultations, and psychosocial support have been noteworthy.
Despite restrictions on movement and the devastating impact of military operations, UNRWA staff continue to deliver food rations, health, social, and psychological services. Funding cuts, following allegations involving some UNRWA staff, have posed significant threats to the continuation of these essential services. However, the support from international partners remains crucial to sustain operations amidst a humanitarian crisis that sees the spread of diseases and a dire need for medical and relief services.
