Ban on UNRWA Will Deepen Palestine’s Humanitarian Catastrophe

The recent decision to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating in Israel (and Palestine) is sparking urgent concerns over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and beyond. With the region already in dire need of sustained support, the restriction of an agency that has been a lifeline for Palestinian refugees is likely to plunge millions into further hardship. IF Charity remains deeply concerned about the far-reaching impact of this decision on vulnerable populations, and our work remains more crucial than ever in filling the gaps in essential aid.

What Is UNRWA, and Why Is It Important?

Established in 1949, UNRWA has long been a pillar of support for Palestinian refugees, providing essential services such as education, healthcare, and emergency relief to millions of Palestinians across Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. In Gaza, where basic infrastructure and resources are severely limited, UNRWA’s role is especially critical, helping address high rates of poverty, food insecurity, and a fragile healthcare system. For families facing severe food shortages, lack of access to clean water, and limited medical resources, UNRWA has provided stability and hope.

On October 28, 2024, the Israeli parliament (Knesset) voted to ban UNRWA from operating in Israel, severely affecting UNRWA’s ability to serve refugees in any of the occupied territories that Israel controls, including Gaza.

The Consequences of the Ban

The decision to ban UNRWA’s operations means removing a vital lifeline for Palestinians. Humanitarian leaders have criticised this restriction as a dangerous politicisation of aid, one that will inevitably lead to tremendous suffering and insecurity. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini warned that removing UNRWA from Gaza and the West Bank will “create a vacuum that will not be filled by others,” leaving millions without access to basic necessities.

The potential fallout from this ban includes:

• Loss of Education: UNRWA schools, which serve over half a million Palestinian children, may close, risking the future of an entire generation. Without access to education, children in Gaza and the West Bank will face bleak prospects, as well as an increased risk of poverty and violence.
• Healthcare Crisis: With Gaza’s healthcare system already strained, the removal of UNRWA-supported clinics will leave families without essential medical services, exacerbating preventable diseases and malnutrition.
• Increased Food Insecurity: Many Palestinians rely on UNRWA for food aid. Without this support, hunger will rise sharply, compounding families’ daily challenges in accessing basic nutrition.

Filling the Void: IF Charity’s Role

As UNRWA faces new restrictions, IF Charity is more determined than ever to continue supporting the people of Gaza. Our mission, focused solely on serving the Palestinian population in Gaza, is to ensure that Gazan families’ essential needs are met, regardless of external pressures or challenges. Through our food aid, medical support, educational resources, and emergency relief programs, we strive to address the severe humanitarian needs in the region.

While the ban on UNRWA limits access to established international aid networks, local organizations like IF Charity can play a crucial role in providing timely and targeted assistance. Yet, this requires collective support and sustained commitment from donors and communities across the globe.

The challenges facing Gaza are now more significant than ever. As we work to mitigate the impact of this crisis, every donation helps strengthen our ability to provide food, shelter, education, and healthcare to those who need it most. By supporting IF Charity, you contribute to a lifeline that will not waver, no matter how severe the obstacles.

Join us in providing Palestinian families hope, relief, and support during these challenging times. Visit IF Charity’s programmes page to learn more about our programmes and how you can make a difference today.