UN Chief Emphasizes Indispensability of UNRWA Amid Criticism

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reaffirmed the indispensable role of the U.N. Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) amid Israeli calls for its dismantlement. Despite facing accusations of bias and involvement in terrorist activities, 118 countries have shown support for the agency, which provides essential aid and services to millions of Palestinians.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized on Friday that there is no alternative to the U.N. Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA, receiving backing from 118 countries as efforts intensify to dismantle it by Israel.

UNRWA delivers education, health, and aid to millions of Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon. Since the Gaza conflict began between Israel and Hamas, the agency has been crucial for aid operations. 'Protect UNRWA, its staff, and its mandate,' urged Guterres at a pledging conference in New York. 'There is no alternative to UNRWA.'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for UNRWA's dismantlement, accusing it of anti-Israeli bias. Some countries halted funding amid allegations of agency staff involvement in a Hamas attack on Israel. Despite resumed donations, the U.N. is investigating internally. Meanwhile, UNRWA faces violent protests, misinformation campaigns, and severe operational restrictions.

(With inputs from agencies.)