The UN agency that assists Palestine refugees, UNRWA, launched a $1.2 billion appeal on Wednesday to address the unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the besieged Gaza Strip and to respond to needs in the West Bank as violence there increases.
The funding will cover humanitarian response through the end of the year, with the goal of meeting the most urgent needs of 1.7 million people in war-ravaged Gaza and more than 200,000 Palestine refugees in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
Lifeline for millions
“The scars of war are seen on a massive scale in Gaza. Meanwhile violence is increasing in the West Bank,” Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said.
“It is critical to support UNRWA in providing lifesaving humanitarian assistance and development services in health and education. The past months proved that there is no replacement or alternative to UNRWA.”
As the largest humanitarian organisation on the ground in Gaza, UNRWA is the backbone of the aid operation in the enclave, managing shelters hosting more than one million people, distributing food, providing primary healthcare and coordinating logistics for aid deliveries.
Two hundred days into the war, the priority now is to bring in much needed supplies, including food, into Gaza, where the population has become almost entirely dependent on handouts and relief assistance.
Bombardment continues
Meanwhile, UNRWA has condemned continuing “bombardment and attacks” of its facilities in Gaza.
Posting on the social media platform X, UNRWA said that a school-turned-shelter in the Nuseirat camp was targeted three times on 11 and 13 April, killing seven people and causing injuries and further displacement.
In another social media post, the agency reported that it had conducted a mission with the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to northern Gaza on Tuesday to provide lifesaving medical and water-purification aid to people in Jabalia.
Simon Blake is an experienced journalist deeply interested in international affairs and global development. Having spent years reporting on humanitarian issues, he offers a unique perspective in his coverage of United Nations news.
It’s devastating to see the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the West Bank. The international community must step up and support UNRWA’s appeal to provide essential aid to those in desperate need. We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the suffering of millions of people in this conflict-ridden region.
Is the $1.2 billion appeal by UNRWA sufficient to meet the urgent needs in Gaza and the West Bank, considering the scale of the humanitarian crisis?
Yes, the $1.2 billion appeal by UNRWA is a crucial step in addressing the urgent needs in Gaza and the West Bank. The scale of the humanitarian crisis demands significant resources, and this funding will play a vital role in providing lifesaving assistance to the affected population. It is essential for the international community to continue supporting UNRWA’s efforts to ensure the well-being of Palestine refugees in these conflict-affected regions.
Could you clarify if the $1.2 billion budget includes specific allocations for healthcare and education programs in Gaza and the West Bank?
Yes, the $1.2 billion budget includes allocations specifically for healthcare and education programs in Gaza and the West Bank. The goal is to address the urgent needs of the population in these areas, especially in the midst of increasing violence and humanitarian crisis.
UNRWA’s initiative is commendable in tackling the pressing needs in Gaza and the West Bank. The funding appeal will undoubtedly assist millions in dire humanitarian situations. It is vital to prioritize supporting UNRWA’s efforts in providing essential services to those affected by conflict and violence.
As a firm supporter of humanitarian efforts, I believe it is imperative to provide substantial financial support to UNRWA’s $1.2 billion appeal. The dire situation in Gaza and the escalating violence in the West Bank demand immediate action to address the urgent needs of the affected population. UNRWA’s role in delivering essential services is pivotal, and backing their efforts is crucial in mitigating the human suffering in these conflict-affected areas.
As a humanitarian worker myself, I strongly believe that supporting UNRWA is crucial in addressing the dire situation in Gaza and the West Bank. The funding appeal of $1.2 billion is essential to providing lifesaving assistance to the vulnerable populations affected by conflict. UNRWA’s efforts are indispensable in ensuring basic needs such as healthcare, education, and food are met in these regions. The international community must rally together to help UNRWA continue its vital work.