Systematic Targeting of UNRWA in Gaza
The ongoing Israeli campaign against the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has intensified, marking a year of systematic targeting of its institutions and employees. This campaign seeks to undermine UNRWA's neutrality and operational capacity, threatening the vital services it provides to millions of Palestinian refugees. Founded 75 years ago, UNRWA has been a critical lifeline for those affected by the Nakba, yet recent developments have put its future in jeopardy.
Since the outbreak of renewed conflict on October 7, 2023, UNRWA has reported significant destruction to its facilities, particularly in health and education sectors. The agency has documented hundreds of casualties among displaced persons due to shelling of its schools, which have been used as refuge centers. Reports indicate that approximately 190 UNRWA buildings have either been destroyed or severely damaged, highlighting a blatant violation of international law that protects civilian infrastructure.
Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of UNRWA, emphasized that the humanitarian needs in Gaza have reached unprecedented levels, with the agency facing its most serious threat in history. He noted that the siege and targeting of UNRWA facilities have severely hampered its ability to deliver essential services, including health care and emergency relief. The situation has escalated to a point where the agency may soon be unable to operate, which would have dire consequences for the entire UN system in the region, as many rely on UNRWA's services for survival.
International Response and Implications
The Israeli campaign against UNRWA has not only involved direct military actions but also political maneuvers, including accusations against the agency's employees of supporting Palestinian resistance during the recent conflict. These allegations led to some donor countries temporarily freezing their aid, although many have since resumed support after Israel failed to substantiate its claims. Additionally, a controversial bill in the Israeli Knesset aimed at designating UNRWA as a terrorist organization has faced significant international pushback, including from the United States, which has reaffirmed the importance of the agency's role.
Amidst the escalating humanitarian crisis, Israel has continued to restrict the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, defying numerous international calls for assistance. Lazzarini warned that any cessation of UNRWA's activities would have catastrophic implications, not only for Palestinian refugees but also for the stability of the region as a whole. As the situation deteriorates, the growing fear of a complete collapse of civil infrastructure in Gaza looms large, underscoring the critical need for immediate international intervention and support.
