Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), announced on Tuesday that 160 of the agency’s facilities in the Gaza Strip have been completely destroyed.
Speaking at a press conference at the UN headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, Lazzarini highlighted the dire circumstances in Gaza and the significant destruction of UNRWA’s operational infrastructure.
Lazzarini welcomed the recent restart of funding by several countries, ensuring that the agency has sufficient funds to continue its operations until the end of June.
He also responded positively to the findings of an independent review group’s report, which was released on Monday. The report praises UNRWA for its commitment to humanitarian principles, especially neutrality, describing the agency’s approach as more sophisticated than similar international or non-governmental organizations.
Despite these affirmations, Lazzarini pointed out the complexities of operating in such a challenging environment, stating, “We must remain extremely vigilant and there is always more that can be done.”
He reassured member states that UNRWA is updating its response plan and ensuring partners are informed about the measures already taken in accordance with the recommendations of the review.
Addressing the UN Security Council, Lazzarini emphasized that the accusations of bias are not the main reason behind the attacks on UNRWA. Instead, he suggested that the primary motive is to strip Palestinians of their refugee status, applying pressure not only in Gaza but also in Jerusalem and the West Bank.
He urged the Security Council to initiate an independent investigation to ensure accountability for the blatant disregard for the sanctity of UN facilities and personnel in Gaza.
To date, 280 UN employees have been killed, and more than 160 buildings have either been damaged or completely destroyed, with at least 400 people killed while seeking refuge under the UN flag.
Reports have also surfaced that evacuated UN buildings were used for military purposes, and that UN staff were arrested and subjected to mistreatment or torture.
Lazzarini noted the increase in aid delivery to Gaza, with a peak of 360 trucks entering on a single day in April, indicating a positive trend compared to previous months.
However, with the approach of summer and the potential resurgence of diseases, especially in the southern regions, waste collection has become a priority to prevent disease outbreaks.
Lazzarini also expressed deep concerns about the potential for a renewed Israeli military attack on Rafah, signaling a worrying development in the ongoing conflict.
This statement from the UNRWA Commissioner-General calls for international attention and support as the agency navigates through these unprecedented challenges to continue providing crucial assistance to Palestinian refugees in Gaza.
