Gaza's Humanitarian Crisis: UNRWA Chief Sounds Alarm Amid Funding Crisis

Gaza Crisis Deepens as UNRWA Faces Funding Shortfall The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is worsening, according to Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). In a recent interview, Lazzarini described the perilous conditions faced by both the Palestinian population and UNRWA staff. "Our staff are sharing the fate of the population in Gaza. They’re in constant move because there is no safe place in the Gaza Strip. They are also hungry. They’re struggling to survive," he stated. The crisis is exacerbated by a severe funding shortage, stemming from the US withdrawal of funding in January 2024. Lazzarini stressed the urgent need for increased contributions from UN member states and the Arab world to fill this gap. Despite the challenges, UNRWA continues to provide essential services, including managing shelters and delivering food aid, though at a reduced scale. The agency's commitment to providing critical services, even amid immense difficulty, underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for international support. The international community must act swiftly to prevent a further deterioration of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The continued commitment of UNRWA staff, despite the risks they face, is a testament to their dedication and the critical role they play in supporting the Palestinian population.