Top United Nations officials and global diplomats have issued a strong warning about the potential collapse of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which relies almost entirely on voluntary funding from member states. The agency, a lifeline for millions of Palestinian refugees, is facing severe financial pressure following significant cuts in contributions, especially from the United States. Experts caution that the consequences of such a collapse would be catastrophic, both for the Palestinian people and for global stability.Speaking on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares Bueno emphasized that "there is no alternative to UNRWA." He described the agency as indispensable, highlighting its essential role in providing education, healthcare, and humanitarian support to Palestinian communities. Without its continued operation, he warned, the region could face worsening humanitarian crises and heightened instability.
The remarks followed a high-level ministerial meeting jointly hosted by Jordan, Spain, and Brazil to rally support for UNRWA's critical mission. Bueno noted the rapidly shrinking humanitarian space and urged nations to act decisively, stressing their "moral and legal responsibility" to alleviate the unbearable conditions in Gaza. He underscored the importance of coordinated action within the UN framework to ensure that no country faces this challenge alone.
Spain, he said, remains steadfast in its commitment to Palestinian refugees. Since late 2023, the country has contributed over €60 million to UNRWA and recently pledged an additional €10 million. This funding is part of a broader plan to reach €150 million in total aid by 2026.
Bueno reiterated that supporting UNRWA is not just a financial matter but a moral imperative. The agency's work underpins regional peace, global security, and the dignity of millions.
"We cannot allow UNRWA to collapse," he concluded. "Today's meeting must strengthen, not weaken, its future."Source: