UNRWA CALLS FOR STRONG POLITICAL SUPPORT TO BE TRANSLATED INTO FUNDING AND OPERATIONAL BACKING

CAIRO, Dec 7 (Bernama-WAFA) -- The media adviser for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Adnan Abu Hasna, on Saturday urged that the strong international support and political backing for the agency be translated into real support on the ground through operational assistance and adequate funding.

The Palestine News and Info Agency (WAFA) reported that Abu Hasna said the agency’s renewed mandate comes at a time when the Palestinian people are facing aggression and siege, describing the renewal of UNRWA’s mandate as a clear message of support to millions of Palestinian refugees.

With 151 countries voting in favour, he said the decision reflects global commitment to Palestinian rights and rejection of efforts to undermine their just cause, adding that such support provides “important moral momentum” for UNRWA’s work.

He explained that UNRWA’s budget relies on 95 per cent voluntary donations, and that no law obliges countries to contribute.

The agency is facing a financial shortfall of about US$200 million needed to sustain its services and pay salaries through March.

He noted ongoing efforts by officials to secure funding and diversify income sources, expressing hope for progress in the coming days or weeks.

All countries have restored their contributions, he added, except the United States, which cut US$360 million.

Abu Hasna said the scope of UNRWA’s work continues to grow as the number of refugees increases and crises expand, particularly in devastated areas such as Gaza and Syria.

This has resulted in higher costs and heavier burdens on the agency, which remains a lifeline for refugees and the only organisation operating fully inside Gaza despite massive challenges and deliberate Israeli obstacles.

He noted that UNRWA has managed to restore some services in Gaza despite widespread destruction and severe movement restrictions.

Classes have resumed for 300,000 students in destroyed UNRWA schools, with 50,000 attending in person and the rest learning remotely. Several medical clinics have reopened, providing services to around 15,000 patients, and water distribution continues in displacement areas.

-- BERNAMA-WAFA