👊 UNRWA Stands Its Ground: Defying Israeli Ban to Support Palestinians 🌍
Amid rising tensions and international concern, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) is refusing to back down after a recent Israeli ban came into effect. Despite the challenges, UNRWA vows to continue providing essential aid to millions of Palestinians, emphasizing their commitment to their humanitarian mission. ✊
Earlier this month, the Israeli parliament passed two laws prohibiting UNRWA from operating within Israeli territories and banning any Israeli authority from engaging with the agency. These laws, which took effect on Thursday, have sparked a significant backlash and raised questions about the future of aid in the region.
\"UNRWA says that it is committed to staying and delivering,\" affirmed Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, during a daily briefing. Despite the Israeli ban, UNRWA staff continue their work, with clinics across the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, remaining open to serve those in need.
\"Our staff are either in the field, such as at clinics, or working from home or other locations,\" Dujarric explained. The agency is also continuing its vital services in the Gaza Strip, providing health and education assistance, as well as food aid to the Palestinian community.
When asked about any new instructions to UNRWA staff in light of the Israeli law, Dujarric stated, \"The directive is that UNRWA will continue to do its work until it no longer can.\"
Israel announced on Wednesday that it would sever all ties with UNRWA, accusing the agency of employing Hamas operatives and enabling \"terror activity\" in Gaza. Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oren Marmorstein declared on social media platform X, \"UNRWA is riddled with Hamas. Beginning Jan. 30, Israel will cease all engagement with UNRWA in accordance with Israeli law.\"
Since 1950, UNRWA has been a lifeline for Palestinian refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. The agency's commitment has been unwavering, even in the face of political challenges and conflicts.
The Israeli ban threatens life-saving aid, education, and healthcare for millions of Palestinians. International leaders and aid groups have condemned the move, with the United Nations repeatedly warning of disastrous consequences. 🌐
For many Palestinians, UNRWA doesn't just represent aid—it symbolizes hope and the promise of a better future. 💙 As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that ensures the well-being and rights of the Palestinian people.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story. 📢
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UNRWA defies Israeli ban, vows to continue aid amid backlash
cgtn.com
