Gaza Aid Crisis
Nuseirat
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) has accused Israel of intentionally paralyzing its humanitarian operations in Gaza, warning that millions of Palestinians are being left exposed as heavy rains and winter conditions set in. The agency said the Israeli blockade, now entering its third year amid the ongoing war, has restricted essential aid and hampered its ability to reach Gaza’s displaced population.
Addressing the UN General Assembly’s Fourth Committee, UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said the agency’s mandate is protected under international law and must be upheld. He cited conclusions from the UN Commission of Inquiry and rulings by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which he said require Israel to lift its restrictions on UNRWA’s activities. Safeguarding UNRWA’s mandate and operations is required under international law; it is vital to the survival of millions of Palestinians; and it is essential for a political solution, Lazzarini said.
Speaking to reporters in New York, Lazzarini warned that the agency is also facing a severe funding crisis worsened by cuts from major donors, including the United States. He said the organisation is struggling to sustain its basic functions. We run week by week, month by month. I know that as of today, we will be able to process our salaries in November, but have no idea if… we will be able to process our salaries in December, he said.
Israel barred UNRWA from operating on its territory earlier this year after accusing several of its staff of participating in the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attack. However, Israel has not provided evidence supporting these allegations, which UNRWA has called baseless and politically motivated. With resources shrinking and access blocked, UNRWA warns that essential services including food distribution, medical care, and shelter support could soon collapse, leaving Gaza’s population in even deeper peril.