UN Chief Antonio Guterres Urges Support for UNRWA to Help Palestine Refugees

New York [US], July 13 – UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has highlighted the crucial role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) during a pledging conference. He warned that without necessary support and financing, Palestine Refugees would lose a critical lifeline and hope for a better future.

Guterres praised the bravery of UNRWA staff, calling them the backbone of humanitarian operations in Gaza. He stressed, “There is no alternative to UNRWA.”

He pointed out the profound funding gap and the widening gaps in respect for international humanitarian law and human rights for Palestinians. He noted that Palestinians in Gaza face death, destruction, and a breakdown in law and order.

Guterres highlighted that Palestinians, including Palestine Refugees, are enduring the deadliest period since UNRWA’s creation, with 195 UNRWA staff members killed, the highest in UN history.

He appealed for protection and funding for UNRWA, urging immediate action to instill hope, uphold the General Assembly’s mandate, and show solidarity with Palestine Refugees and all Palestinians.