The United States, along with at least six of its allies including Canada, Australia, and Italy, have temporarily suspended funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This decision comes after allegations surfaced that some of UNRWA's staff members are linked to Hamas, with 12 individuals suspected of involvement in the October 7, 2023 cross-border attack on Israel.
UNRWA plays a crucial role in Gaza, especially during the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The agency supports over 2 million people, providing essential services such as food, healthcare, and shelter. According to the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza, the death toll from the Israeli offensive has reached 26,637. Oxfam International reported that the conflict in Gaza has the highest daily death rate of any major conflict in the 21st century, with millions more left homeless and facing the threat of starvation due to the Israeli siege.
In a statement, UNRWA emphasized its vital role, stating, \"UNRWA is the primary humanitarian agency in Gaza, with over 2 million people depending on it for their sheer survival. Many are hungry as the clock is ticking towards a looming famine. The Agency runs shelters for over 1 million people and provides food and primary healthcare even at the height of the hostilities.\" Additionally, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) recently ordered Israel to take immediate and effective measures to ensure the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
The withdrawal of financial support by Western nations marks a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape. While framed as a response to concerns over terrorist collaboration within UNRWA, critics argue that this move endangers the lives of Palestinian refugees who rely heavily on the agency's support. With over 13,000 employees in Gaza, the sudden funding cut without a viable alternative could worsen the humanitarian situation, potentially leading to increased instability in an already volatile region.
Although accountability within UNRWA is a valid concern, the abrupt cessation of funding raises questions about the commitment of Western nations to address the underlying issues facing the agency. The reliance of millions on UNRWA's services highlights the critical need for sustained support to prevent further humanitarian decline in Gaza.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
