JERUSALEM: The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) on Thursday warned that international funding cuts may compel the organization to shut down its operations across the region by the end of February.
UNRWA Chief Philippe Lazzarini emphasized the critical situation, stating that “if the funding remains suspended, we will most likely be forced to shut down our operations by the end of February, not only in Gaza but also across the region.”
Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, following discussions with Lazzarini, stressed the immediate need for the international community to support UNRWA. He highlighted the agency’s indispensable role in providing a lifeline for over two million Palestinians facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
A statement from the Jordanian foreign ministry urged countries that have suspended aid to UNRWA to reconsider their decision. Both Safadi and Lazzarini emphasized that any reduction in financial support would exacerbate the suffering of the people of Gaza, who are already on the brink of mass starvation.
The potential shutdown of UNRWA’s operations raises concerns about the humanitarian impact on Palestinian refugees who heavily rely on the agency’s assistance.
