Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the Arab League, has voiced concerns over the potential termination of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), citing it as a threat to the entire Middle East region.
Speaking to Al-Qahira Al-Ikhbariya, Aboul Gheit emphasized the dangers posed by the cessation of UNRWA's operations, highlighting the moral, humanitarian, and security implications.
Aboul Gheit criticized the decision of some countries to suspend funding to UNRWA, labeling it as a mistake that aligns with the objectives of right-wing parties in Israel, which have historically sought to limit the agency's role in addressing the Palestinian refugee crisis.
Several countries, including the US, Britain, Germany, and Canada, have announced the suspension of funding to UNRWA amid concerns over alleged links to Hamas. This move has placed UNRWA's operations at risk, with Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini taking action against agency employees suspected of involvement in attacks on Israel by Hamas militants.
Established in 1949, UNRWA provides vital assistance, including medical, social, food aid, and education, to 5.9 million Palestinian refugees in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. Its operations are funded through voluntary contributions from UN member states, EU countries, and international non-governmental organizations.
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Based on materials from TASS